Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been dealt a major setback ahead of their AFCON 2025 semi-final showdown with Morocco after captain and midfield anchor Wilfred Ndidi was suspended for the match. Ndidi will miss the last-four tie due to an automatic one-match ban triggered by accumulated yellow cards.
The news comes just days after Nigeria knocked out Algeria to reach the semi-finals, setting up a high-stakes clash with host nation Morocco.
Why Ndidi is suspended
Reports confirm Ndidi picked up two yellow cards in Nigeria’s knockout run:
- Round of 16 vs Mozambique (first booking)
- Quarter-final vs Algeria (second booking), which triggered the automatic suspension
PUNCH reported that Ndidi was cautioned during the Algeria match for time-wasting before he was later substituted.
Injury concern adds to Nigeria’s headache
Beyond the ban, Ndidi also suffered a hamstring issue in the Algeria game and was replaced soon after the incident, according to match reports.
Even though the suspension is the main reason he will miss the semi-final, the injury angle increases concern about match fitness and recovery heading into the tournament’s final stages.
Why Ndidi’s absence matters
Ndidi is widely regarded as Nigeria’s midfield “engine room” — important for:
- breaking up opposition attacks,
- shielding the defence,
- winning second balls, and
- controlling tempo during pressure phases.
With Morocco expected to press aggressively as hosts, Nigeria will need a disciplined midfield performance to avoid being overrun in transition.
Nigeria vs Morocco: what we know about the semi-final
Nigeria’s semi-final opponent, Morocco, was confirmed after the Super Eagles’ quarter-final win over Algeria.
This match is expected to be one of the tournament’s biggest fixtures, given Morocco’s home advantage and Nigeria’s momentum in the knockout rounds.
Who could replace Ndidi?
Nigeria’s coaching crew now has to adjust the midfield setup. Options usually include:
- pairing a more defensive midfielder with a runner,
- using a double-pivot for extra cover, or
- asking a box-to-box player to sit deeper.
(Team selection will depend on the coach’s preferred shape and the fitness situation across the squad.)
What to watch next
- Nigeria’s official squad update on Ndidi’s hamstring status (for the final/third-place match, if applicable).
- Morocco’s approach — whether they press high or play controlled possession.
- Nigeria’s midfield combination and whether the replacement can keep structure without Ndidi.
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