Rabat: Victor Osimhen will captain Nigeria’s Super Eagles against hosts Morocco in the AFCON 2025 semi-final, replacing suspended skipper Wilfred Ndidi. Hosts Morocco face off against Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday at 8 p.m. in one of the highly anticipated semi-finals of the tournament.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ndidi has been ruled out due to two yellow cards accumulated during Nigeria’s Round of 16 victory over Mozambique and their quarter-final win against Tunisia. Osimhen, who is Nigeria’s Vice-Captain, previously led the team in their final group match against Uganda and is experienced in handling leadership responsibilities.
Nigeria reached the semi-final with confidence after securing a 2-0 victory over Algeria, a match in which Osimhen scored and assisted a goal. South Africa forward Zakhele Lepasa had tipped Nigeria as favourites, stating that none of the remaining teams can contain Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
Lepasa mentioned that Nigeria was under pressure after failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is eager to prove they remain Africa’s best team. He described Nigeria as the tournament’s strongest side, highlighting their fourteen goals and attacking depth led by Osimhen and Lookman.
Nigeria’s impressive run in Morocco has eased earlier criticism, with the Super Eagles emerging as the competition’s most prolific attacking team. Lepasa acknowledged Morocco’s home advantage but questioned whether the hosts have been adequately tested in the tournament. He pointed out Morocco’s reliance on Brahim Daz, who has scored five of their nine goals, contrasting it with Nigeria’s shared scoring threat.
According to Lepasa, Nigeria’s attacking balance provides the Super Eagles with an edge, adding that he does not see Morocco stopping Osimhen and Lookman easily.