Raphael Onyedika Takes Over from Ndidi as Osimhen Leads Nigeria Against Morocco

The Super Eagles of Nigeria see one alteration in their lineup as they prepare to confront the Atlas Lions of Morocco this Wednesday evening.

Midfielder Raphael Onyedika takes the place of captain Wilfred Ndidi, who will be missed due to a suspension after receiving a second yellow card in Nigeria's quarter-final match against Egypt, which ended in a 2-0 victory for Nigeria.

Onyedika, who netted two goals in the final group stage game against Uganda, will partner with regular starters Alex Iwobi and Fran Onyeka in the midfield.

In the absence of Ndidi, striker Victor Osimhen will captain the team. He demonstrated his leadership qualities during the match against Algeria, assuming the captaincy after Ndidi left the field due to injury.

The Galatasaray forward is expected to play a pivotal role on the pitch, especially considering the anticipated challenging atmosphere created by the full-capacity crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Bruno Onyemaechi and Bright Osayi-Samuel will maintain their positions as fullbacks, while Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi will partner at the center of defense.

With a victory over Morocco, Nigeria hopes to reach its ninth final at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament and vie for a fourth AFCON championship title.

The starting eleven for Nigeria against Morocco includes: Nwabali (GK); Bassey, Ajayi, Osayi-Samuel, Onyemaechi; Onyedika, Onyeka, Iwobi; Lookman, Adams, Osimhen.