Nigeria vs Morocco: Ndidi out, Onyedika starts as Super Eagles face hosts in semi-final

Emmanuel Onyeacholem
1 Min Read

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has confirmed his starting lineup for tonight’s high-stakes 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final clash against host nation Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

The most notable change to Nigeria’s lineup is the enforced absence of captain Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended after receiving his second yellow card of the knockout stage during the Super Eagles’ 2–0 quarter-final victory over Algeria.

Stepping into the holding midfield role is Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika, who earns his second start of the tournament.

Super Eagles... Photo: Pooja Media
Super Eagles… Photo: Pooja Media

Tactical Setup: 4-3-1-2

Nigeria is expected to line up in a 4-3-1-2, diamond-leaning formation, designed to match Morocco’s fluid midfield structure and maintain numerical control in central areas.

Stanley Nwabali retains his place in goal, with the defensive unit unchanged. In Ndidi’s absence, Victor Osimhen will wear the captain’s armband, spearheading a potent attacking partnership alongside Sevilla forward Akor Adams.

Just behind the strikers, Ademola Lookman, arguably Nigeria’s standout performer at the tournament, will operate as the creative hub, having played a key role in the Super Eagles’ competition-leading 14 goals so far.

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Emmanuel Onyeacholem Chukwuyem is a sports journalist, football commentator, writer, and broadcaster focused on African football, delivering in-depth coverage of domestic leagues, national teams, and major international tournaments.
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