The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been dealt a significant setback ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 tournament, with key defender Benjamin Fredrick officially ruled out due to a knee injury.
The injury was sustained during a training session with his Belgian club, FC Dender, according to reports.
The news was confirmed by sports writer and BBC Sport broadcaster, Oluwashina Okeleji. Fredrick, 20, reportedly picked up the injury shortly after returning from the recent World Cup qualifiers playoff campaign, where he featured prominently in all matches.
The Super Eagles failed to secure the Intercontinental playoff slot, ultimately losing out to DR Congo—a campaign in which Fredrick had been a crucial defensive presence.
Fredrick, who is currently on loan at FC Dender from Premier League side Brentford, had rapidly established himself as a vital component of the Nigerian defense. His performances had seen him step into the void previously occupied by former captain William Troost-Ekong, making him a central figure in the team’s plans for the continental championship.
The young defender is now expected to undergo rehabilitation and is projected to return to action only after the conclusion of the AFCON tournament.
In light of the injury, Head Coach Eric Chelle is reported to have already identified a replacement for Fredrick. An updated squad list addressing the defensive gap is anticipated to be announced by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) in the coming days.
Fredrick’s absence is a major blow to the Super Eagles’ defensive solidity as they prepare for the highly anticipated AFCON 2025 campaign.
