Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has named Raphael Onyedika as the replacement for suspended captain Wilfred Ndidi in Nigeria’s starting line-up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final clash against Morocco.
Ndidi was ruled out of the encounter after receiving a second consecutive yellow card in the quarter-final victory over Algeria. His absence opens the door for Onyedika, who earns his second start of the tournament.
The 24-year-old previously featured for 90 minutes in Nigeria’s 3-1 group-stage win over Uganda, where he scored twice and was named man of the match. He is the only change to Chelle’s regular starting XI and will anchor the midfield alongside Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi.
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Upfront, the in-form attacking trio of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams retain their places, continuing a partnership that has delivered goals throughout the competition.
The defensive quartet of Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemaechi also remain unchanged, with Stanley Nwabali keeping his place in goal.
Nigeria will take on Morocco on Wednesday at 9 pm Nigerian time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat for a spot in the AFCON final.
Super Eagles Starting XI: Stanley Nwabali, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyeamaechi; Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi; Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, Victor Osimhen.
