Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has admitted his disappointment over the absence of captain Wilfred Ndidi ahead of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against hosts Morocco on Wednesday, Afrosport reports.
The Besiktas midfielder will miss the crucial encounter after picking up a suspension-inducing yellow card during Nigeria’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria. Ndidi’s absence has raised concerns over the Super Eagles’ ability to overcome a strong Moroccan side on home soil.
Despite the setback, Chelle remains confident in the quality and depth within his squad and believes Nigeria have the resources to cope without their influential captain.
“I am disappointed for him because he brings so much to the team,” Chelle said during his press conference on Tuesday. “But we are a group; I have some players, some very good players, who are waiting for a chance to show what they can contribute.”
The 48-year-old Malian also moved to reassure Nigerian supporters, insisting his side are capable of beating the tournament hosts and booking a place in the final.
“So I am very confident about that [beating Morocco] and I have to make a choice among some players. Everything will be fine,” he added.
Ndidi has been a standout for Nigeria in the tournament, scoring his first goal for Nigeria in the win against Tunisia.
Ndidi has caught the eyes of many fans and experts at the tournament, with top-class performances. The 29-year-old opened his goalscoring account for the national team in the victory over Tunisia earlier in the competition.
His suspension is a significant blow, but Chelle will be hoping his side can adapt and rise to the challenge.
Morocco, on the other hand, will look to capitalise on home advantage, with close to 70,000 supporters expected to fill the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium as they chase a place in the final.
