Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has named his starting lineup for Wednesday’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final clash against Morocco, making one enforced change due to suspension.
Midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who picked up his second yellow card of the tournament in the quarter-final victory over Algeria, has been replaced by Raphael Onyedika. This will be Onyedika's second start in the competition, having previously played the full 90 minutes and scoring twice in Nigeria’s 3-1 group stage win against Uganda—a performance that earned him the Man of the Match award.
The 24-year-old will slot into the base of a three-man midfield alongside Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi.
Unchanged Attack and Defense
The rest of the lineup remains unchanged from the team that has powered Nigeria to the semi-finals. The attacking trio of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams will continue their partnership up front, while the defensive unit of Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Bruno Onyemaechi stays intact. Stanley Nwabali retains his place in goal.
The highly anticipated match is scheduled for Wednesday at 9:00 PM Nigerian time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The winner will advance to the AFCON 2025 final.
Nigeria Starting XI:
* Stanley Nwabali;
* Bright Osayi-Samuel,
* Calvin Bassey,
* Semi Ajayi,
* Bruno Onyemaechi;
* Raphael Onyedika,
* Frank Onyeka,
* Alex Iwobi;
* Ademola Lookman,
* Akor Adams,
* Victor Osimhen.
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