AFCON 2025: Eric Chelle backs 'strong' Super Eagles defence to cope without Aina, Ekong, Fredrick in Morocco

Nigeria's Super Eagles begin their Africa Cup of Nations Group C campaign on Tuesday evening at the Complexe Sportif de Fes, but they must do so without veteran leader William Troost-Ekong, versatile full-back Ola Aina, and rising star Benjamin Fredrick.

The defensive reshuffle comes following a series of setbacks.

Former captain Troost-Ekong officially announced his retirement from international football on 4 December, shortly after the provisional squad was named, ending a decade of service to the national team. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina remains in rehabilitation for a long-term hamstring injury sustained during June's World Cup qualifiers.

Rounding out the absentees is 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick, who was widely tipped to be a breakout star in Morocco before a knee injury suffered in training with Belgian side FCV Dender ruled him out of the entire tournament.

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Despite missing these foundational pieces, Chelle remained composed when addressed by reporters at the pre-match press conference in Fes.

“No, I’m not worried,” Chelle told the media ahead of the Tanzania clash.

“I trust my players. Of course, I’d prefer these guys [Troost-Ekong, Fredrick, and Aina] to be here, but now I’m with my squad, and I trust them so much."

The Franco-Malian tactician, who is seeking redemption with the Super Eagles after their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, emphasised that defensive solidity is a collective effort rather than a burden placed solely on the backline.

“We have a strong defence, we’ve worked a lot on it. We are focused on our game plan and when you want to defend, it’s not only about the defenders; it’s about all the players on the pitch,” Chelle added.

Nigeria will look to maintain their unbeaten historical record against the Taifa Stars and start the tournament on a winning note.