Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign takes a hit as defender Benjamin Fredrick ruled out with knee injury
Nigeria’s hopes at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations have suffered a major blow after central defender Benjamin Fredrick was confirmed to miss the tournament due to a knee injury.
The 20-year-old sustained the injury last Friday during training with his Belgian club, Dender EH. Medical assessments revealed the damage will keep Fredrick sidelined for around 12 weeks, ruling him out of action for the tournament starting December 21 in Morocco.
Fredrick emerged as a key figure in the Super Eagles’ defense during recent World Cup qualifiers and the Africa playoffs, where Nigeria narrowly lost to DR Congo on penalties. His absence will be keenly felt by head coach Eric Chelle, who had included the young defender in his provisional AFCON squad.
Since making his senior debut in May 2025, Fredrick has earned six caps, impressing with his defensive skills and composure. His rapid rise and leadership at the back made him a pivotal part of Nigeria’s plans as they chase a fourth AFCON crown.
With the final 23-man squad due by December 10, Coach Chelle now faces the task of reshuffling his defense to cover for Fredrick. The Super Eagles will look to other defenders to step up as they prepare to face Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda in Group C.
Nigeria’s campaign will depend on maintaining defensive solidity despite this setback as they aim for continental glory in Morocco.
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