Big Blow For Super Eagles As Key Defender Set To Miss AFCON 2025

Big Blow For Super Eagles As Key Defender Set To Miss AFCON 2025

Sampson Adedeji

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been dealt a major setback ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nations in Morocco, as dependable defender Benjamin Fredrick is set to miss the tournament due to injury, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The promising centre-back sustained a knee injury during a training session with his Belgian club Dender on Tuesday evening, ruling him out of action for several weeks and making him unavailable for the continental showpiece scheduled to kick off on December 21.

Fredrick’s absence will be a huge blow for head coach Eric Chelle, who has relied heavily on the youngster in recent months.

Since making his debut, the utility defender has consistently delivered solid performances, bringing much-needed stability and composure to the Super Eagles’ backline.

The 18-year-old has been impressive for the national team, featuring in Nigeria’s last six international matches and emerging as a key part of the defensive structure.

Reports from Belgium suggest that the player will only return to full fitness after the AFCON tournament, leaving the Super Eagles coaching crew searching for a suitable replacement.

The injury comes at a crucial time as Nigeria continues preparations towards reclaiming the AFCON title for the first time since 2013. Further updates are expected from both the NFF and his club in the coming days.