Midfielder to lead Nigeria against Tanzania after Troost-Ekong’s retirement.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has appointed a new captain for the Nigeria national team just days before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 kicks off in Morocco. This comes after the international retirement of former skipper William Troost-Ekong, who stepped down from international football in early December.
Ndidi to Lead the Super Eagles
Chelle has entrusted the captaincy armband to Wilfred Ndidi, the experienced Besiktas midfielder, ahead of Nigeria’s AFCON opener against Tanzania on December 23. Ndidi’s leadership will be supported by Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi, with talisman Victor Osimhen named as the team’s fourth captain for the tournament.
This decision comes in the wake of Troost-Ekong’s exit from the international stage, leaving a leadership gap just before one of Africa’s biggest football events. Ndidi’s calm presence in midfield and vast international experience made him a logical choice to guide the Super Eagles through the group stages of the competition.
Leadership Reshuffle After Econg’s Retirement
Troost-Ekong widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential defenders announced his retirement from international football mere weeks before the AFCON curtain-raiser. His departure left the Super Eagles with a crucial leadership void at a time when experience and composure are key to success.
Chelle’s choice of Ndidi reflects a blend of experience and tactical discipline in midfield, as he looks to marshal a squad that boasts stars like Osimhen, Iwobi, and Simon while also integrating emerging talent into the AFCON mix.
Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 journey begins with an expected tactical battle against Tanzania, a team that will test the Super Eagles’ resolve and leadership from the outset. The appointment of Ndidi as captain suggests Chelle wants a midfield anchor with proven defensive discipline to set the tone for Nigeria’s tournament.
The Super Eagles have been finalizing their preparations, trimming their squad to the final 28 players and building cohesion ahead of the tournament kick-off later this month.
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