Super Eagles Star Frank Onyeka Names One Defender Nigeria Will Miss at AFCON 2025
Nigeria midfielder Frank Onyeka has said the Super Eagles will badly miss Benjamin Fredrick at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Fredrick has been ruled out of the tournament after suffering a knee injury while on loan at Belgian club Dender FH. The 20-year-old defender was expected to make the final AFCON squad after his impressive rise with the national team.
Speaking about the injury setback, Onyeka described Fredrick’s absence as a big loss for the team. He said the young defender had quickly settled into the squad and was well liked by everyone.
“Benjamin has integrated himself into the team and everybody loves him,” Onyeka said. “He did very well in the games he played and we expected him to be a big part of the tournament.”
Fredrick only broke into the Super Eagles earlier this year but made a strong impression, especially during the Unity Cup, where Nigeria won the final against Jamaica. His calm defending and ability to read the game earned him the trust of the coaching staff and senior players.
His performances saw him included in important World Cup qualifiers and playoff matches, making him a strong contender for a starting role at AFCON before the injury ended his chances.
With Fredrick unavailable, head coach Eric Chelle has named Igoh Ogbu as his replacement, while Ryan Alebiosu has also been called up as defensive cover.
Nigeria will continue their AFCON preparations without Fredrick, but Onyeka insists his absence will be felt both on and off the pitch as the Super Eagles chase continental glory.
