NFF receives official communication from CAF as Nigeria prepares for crucial AFCON 2025 semi-final against hosts Morocco
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially communicated with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for AFCON 2025 regarding the suspension of key Super Eagles players ahead of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 semi-final showdown against Morocco.
CAF’s message, confirmed by the NFF, follows Nigeria’s impressive 2-0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals, which secured the Super Eagles a place in the last four of the tournament.
According to the communication, Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi will miss the semi-final encounter after accumulating two yellow cards during the competition. The midfield enforcer was booked in Nigeria’s earlier group match and again in the quarter-final clash, automatically ruling him out of the Morocco game under CAF disciplinary regulations.
However, CAF clarified that goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is not suspended, despite earlier concerns over his bookings. The football governing body explained that yellow cards received during the group stage do not carry over into the knockout rounds, easing fears of further absences for Nigeria.
The confirmation comes as a major boost to the Super Eagles, who will rely on a near-full squad as they confront host nation Morocco in what is expected to be a fiercely contested semi-final.
Ndidi’s absence is considered a significant setback due to his leadership and defensive strength in midfield. Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to reshuffle his squad, with Raphael Onyedika tipped as a possible replacement, while Victor Osimhen may assume the captain’s armband.
Nigeria will face Morocco in the AFCON 2025 semi-final on Wednesday, as the Super Eagles continue their quest for a fourth continental title.
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