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Victor Osimhen will captain the Super Eagles in their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash against hosts Morocco after regular skipper Wilfred Ndidi was ruled out due to suspension.
The Napoli striker will lead Nigeria against the Atlas Lions in Wednesday’s high-stakes encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, with a place in the final on the line.
Ndidi’s absence comes as a setback for the Super Eagles, having been an influential figure in Nigeria’s midfield throughout the tournament.
The defensive midfielder picked up his first yellow card during Nigeria’s Round of 16 victory over Mozambique before receiving a second booking in the quarter-final clash against Tunisia.
The accumulated cautions automatically rule him out of the semifinal, forcing the coaching crew to hand the captain’s armband to Osimhen.
Osimhen was named vice-captain ahead of the tournament and is no stranger to leadership responsibilities. He previously captained the Super Eagles during Nigeria’s final group-stage match against Uganda, where he demonstrated maturity and composure on and off the pitch.
His elevation to captaincy is seen as a natural progression, given his status as one of Africa’s most respected forwards.
The 27-year-old striker has been Nigeria’s standout performer at the tournament, combining goals, work rate, and relentless pressing to spearhead the Super Eagles’ attack.
Beyond his scoring ability, Osimhen’s vocal leadership and fighting spirit have made him a key figure in the dressing room, qualities that will be vital against a confident Moroccan side playing on home soil.
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle is expected to rely heavily on Osimhen’s influence as the team looks to overcome the absence of Ndidi.
Tactical adjustments are likely in midfield, with players such as Raphael Onyedika expected to shoulder greater responsibility in screening the defence and maintaining balance against Morocco’s technically gifted squad.
The Super Eagles arrive in the semifinal buoyed by an impressive run that has seen them eliminate strong opponents en route to the last four.
Their quarter-final victory showcased defensive solidity and attacking efficiency, traits they will need to replicate against the Atlas Lions, who have enjoyed strong backing from their home fans throughout the competition.
As preparations continue in Rabat, all eyes will be on Osimhen as he leads Nigeria in one of the most important matches of their AFCON campaign.
With history, pride, and a spot in the final at stake, the Super Eagles will be counting on their new captain to inspire a performance worthy of continental glory.
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