Nigeria’s Super Eagles will head into their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final clash against Morocco without captain Wilfred Ndidi following a suspension.
Ndidi was ruled out after accumulating two yellow cards during the knockout stages of the tournament, automatically triggering a one-match ban under AFCON regulations.
The midfielder was first booked in Nigeria’s round-of-16 victory over Mozambique and received another caution in the quarter-final win against Algeria.
His latest booking came in the second half of the tightly contested match against Algeria, where he was penalised for time-wasting.
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Shortly after, the Besiktas midfielder was substituted after picking up a hamstring knock, though the extent of the injury has not been officially confirmed.
Regardless of his fitness, the suspension ensures he will miss the semi-final encounter.
Ndidi has been a key figure for the Super Eagles throughout the competition, offering balance, defensive solidity and leadership from midfield.
His absence is expected to pose a significant challenge for head coach Eric Chelle as Nigeria prepares for one of its toughest tests of the tournament.
Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika is believed to be the leading candidate to step into Ndidi’s role, while Frank Onyeka and Calvin Bassey, who were both close to suspension, avoided further bookings in the quarter-final.
The semi-final showdown against Morocco’s Atlas Lions is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026. With yellow cards set to be wiped after the semi-finals, Ndidi will be eligible to return should Nigeria secure a place in the final.
The Super Eagles will be hoping to overcome the setback and book a spot in the AFCON 2025 final despite the absence of their captain.