Why Captain Ndidi will miss semi-final clash against Morocco
Wilfred Ndidi
Abdullateef Fowewe
In a major blow to Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of their high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) knockout showdown with Morocco, the team captain, Wilfred Ndidi has been ruled out due to suspension.
The midfielder picked up his second yellow card of the tournament during the Round of 16 victory, forcing him to sit out what could be a defining quarter-final battle.
Ndidi, the 29-year-old defensive powerhouse known for his tireless midfield marshalling and interception prowess, received his first caution in the group stage against Tunisia.
The second came in Nigeria’s gritty 2-0 win over Algeria on Saturday, where a rash challenge in the 78th minute earned him a booking from Senegalese referee Maguette Ndiaye.
Under AFCON rules, two yellows in the knockout phase convert to an automatic one-match ban, leaving the coach with a massive void to fill.
The Super Eagles have relied heavily on Ndidi’s leadership and steel this tournament.
