Sam Sodje Says Benjamin Fredrick’s AFCON Absence Is a Big Loss for Nigeria
Former Super Eagles defender Sam Sodje has described Benjamin Fredrick’s absence from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as a “huge loss” for Nigeria.
Fredrick, who is on loan at FCV Dender from Brentford, picked up a knee injury during training. The injury means the 20-year-old will miss what would have been his first major tournament with the Super Eagles.
Speaking to Footy Africa, Sodje said he was saddened by the news and stressed that the young centre-back has the qualities to become one of Nigeria’s best defenders.
“He has all the attributes to be a top defender, so I’m disappointed to see him ruled out of AFCON,” Sodje said. “It is a big blow to him and the entire team. He was supposed to attend his first senior tournament and continue his development. But everything happens for a reason.”
Fredrick has already earned seven senior caps for Nigeria in 2025 and has become one of the most promising young defenders in the squad. His injury now forces head coach Eric Chelle to rethink his defensive plans ahead of the tournament in Morocco.
Sodje Advises Fredrick to Seek First-Team Football
Beyond the AFCON setback, Sodje also urged Fredrick to consider leaving Brentford if the club cannot give him regular first-team opportunities.
“Wherever he can go and get games, I think he should go,” Sodje said. “It doesn’t have to be Brentford. If the opportunity is not there to play first-team football, he can go elsewhere. But hopefully he can play for Brentford in the Premier League, because it is the best league in the world.”
Fredrick is expected to recover after the AFCON tournament. While a January move looks unlikely, many fans will be watching to see what Brentford decide about his future in the summer.
For now, Nigeria must prepare for the continental competition without one of their brightest young talents.
