Nigeria could be confronted with a selection dilemma at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka all just one yellow card away from suspension.
The Super Eagles booked their place in the quarterfinals with a dominant 4–0 win over Mozambique, but the convincing display has brought new worries for the coaching crew as three influential players now risk missing the next stage if they are booked again.
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Defender Calvin Bassey and midfield anchors Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka all received yellow cards during Monday’s Round of 16 clash, leaving them just one booking away from suspension.
That means another yellow card in Nigeria’s next outing would rule any of the trio out of a potential semi-final, should the Super Eagles progress.
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The development adds extra strain on Nigeria’s midfield and defense, with Ndidi and Onyeka key to ball recovery and controlling the tempo, and Bassey serving as a pivotal figure in the defensive line.
Nigeria will return to action in the quarterfinals on January 10, 2026, at the Marrakech Stadium when they face Algeria.