By DailySports Nigeria on January 14, 2026

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is set to retain the core of his trusted starting XI for Wednesday’s Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash against Morocco, despite being forced into one change.

The Franco-Malian tactician has largely maintained a settled lineup throughout the 2025 AFCON, with his selections delivering consistent and positive results since the start of the tournament.

However, Chelle will be without captain Wilfred Ndidi, who has been ruled out of the semifinal due to a combination of injury and suspension. The former Leicester City midfielder accumulated two yellow cards; one in the Round of 16 victory over Mozambique and another in the quarterfinal win against Algeria, which, alongside an injury sustained in the latter match, renders him unavailable for the encounter.

Ndidi’s absence deprives Nigeria of experience and leadership in midfield, but Chelle is expected to hand a starting role to Raphael Onyedika as his replacement.

The Club Brugge midfielder has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the tournament, notably scoring two goals and earning the Man of the Match award in the Super Eagles’ emphatic Round of 16 win over Mozambique. The only match he played in this competition in starting XI.

Primarily a defensive midfielder, Onyedika is renowned for his physical presence, ball-winning ability and tactical discipline. His strength in breaking up opposition play, coupled with composure in possession, makes him a natural fit to anchor the midfield as Nigeria aim for a place in the final of the 2025 African Nations Cup.

Super Eagles Starting XI

Stanley Nwabali

Chidozie Awaziem

Bruno Onyemaechi

Semi Ajayi

Calvin Bassey

Frank Onyeka

Raphael Onyedika

Alex Iwobi

Ademola Lookman

Akor Adams

Victor Osimhen

Source DailySports Nigeria

Posted January 14, 2026

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