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RMA
AFCON 2025
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Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has identified one key absentee whose presence is still being felt within the Super Eagles camp as they prepare for their AFCON 2025 semifinal clash against Morocco.
Nigeria secured their spot in the final four after a dominant 2-0 quarterfinal win over Algeria, but they have had to navigate the entire tournament without versatile defender Ola Aina.
Aina was initially named in Eric Chelle’s provisional squad but was ultimately omitted due to fitness concerns following a long-term hamstring injury setback.
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08:33 - 14.01.2026
AFCON 2025: Chelle deserves huge credit — Osimhen hails Super Eagles boss for winning run
Victor Osimhen has credited head coach Eric Chelle for transforming the Super Eagles into a winning machine at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
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08:50 - 13.01.2026
AFCON 2025: 'Morocco look scary' — Iwobi cautious but confident ahead of semi-final showdown
Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has admitted that Morocco will be the biggest hurdle in Nigeria’s path as the two heavyweights prepare for a blockbuster AFCON 2025 semifinal in Rabat this Wednesday.
Iwobi says Ola Aina is a big miss at AFCON 2025
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Speaking during a pre-match press conference in Rabat, Iwobi admitted that while the team has adjusted well, the defender’s absence is still noticeable.
“When it comes to him [Aina], he’s a big miss,” Iwobi said.
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“He’s a major figure both on and off the field, and we understand the high level of skill he brings. But at the same time, our right-backs, Bright [Osayi-Samuel] and Ryan [Alebiosu], have done such a good job, so it’s almost as if we haven’t missed him too much.”
Despite the tactical cover provided by the newer faces in the squad, Iwobi revealed that the bond remains strong behind the scenes.
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“He is like one of my closest friends in football. I do miss him as well. He has been sending messages and keeping in contact.
"He’s also sending messages to us, saying he hopes we do well, so of course he’s missed, but he’s still with us in spirit.”
Nigeria’s defence has improved with every passing game at AFCON, with Osayi-Samuel doing a remarkable job of filling the void left by Aina, helping the Super Eagles concede just four goals in five matches.
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11:36 - 11.01.2026
Algeria 0-2 Nigeria: Forget Osimhen, let's talk about Osayi - Fans' MOTM
While everyone obsessed over Victor Osimhen's performance, another Super Eagles star quietly announced himself.
“Of course, he is a really good player, but at the same time, Bright is also really good, and so is Ryan,” Iwobi added.
“We have good right-backs and good defenders, which is a big advantage for Nigeria. Even though we’re missing one player, we still have good players covering a lot of different positions.”
Iwobi will be hoping his teammates in defence can remain on top of their game when they face hosts Morocco in Wednesday's semi-final.