AFCON 2025: Chelle rues Ndidi’s suspension ahead of Super Eagles’ semi-final clash with Morocco

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has expressed his disappointment after Wilfred Ndidi was ruled out of Nigeria’s semi-final showdown against Morocco due to suspension.

The Leicester City midfielder received his second yellow card of the tournament during Nigeria’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria, having been previously booked in the Round of 16 match against Mozambique.

“I am disappointed that our captain will not participate in tomorrow’s match, as his influence on the team is substantial,” Chelle said during a press briefing in Rabat on Tuesday.

Ndidi’s absence is expected to be filled by Raphael Onyedika, the Club Brugge star who scored a brace in his first AFCON appearance against Uganda.

The Super Eagles, aiming for their first continental title since 2013, will now have to navigate the semi-final without one of their key midfield anchors. Chelle’s tactical adjustments and Onyedika’s performance will be pivotal in Nigeria’s pursuit of a spot in the final.