Nigeria’s preparations for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations have been dealt a major blow following confirmation that rising defensive prospect Benjamin Fredrick has been ruled out of the tournament with a knee injury.
Former Nigeria international Abdulkadir Aliyu in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa expressed deep disappointment at the news, describing the timing and severity of the injury as “terrible.”
Aliyu, who has been impressed by the youngster’s rapid development, believes Nigeria is losing one of its best-performing players in the past year.
“This news is a terrible one, and I am not happy to hear it at all because the young lad is gradually finding his feet in the team,” the former U23 defender said in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa. “For me, he has been the best Nigerian defender in the last year with his performances in the Super Eagles recently. This is a big blow for Nigeria and the Super Eagles too and I am sure we are going to miss him at the tournament.”
Despite the disappointment, Aliyu remains confident the Eagles can find suitable cover for the talented defender.
“Though I am unhappy with the news, I know the coach will find capable replacements for Benjamin who will also do well and help us win the trophy again. I pray for quick recovery for him. He is a fantastic young player and I hope he gets all the support he needs. There will be more Nations Cups and I know he will bounce back well and do Nigeria proud again.” Aliyu added.
The 20-year-old centre-back, currently on loan at Belgian side FC Dender from English side Brentford, sustained the injury during training shortly after returning from Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifying playoff.
Fredrick featured in all of the Super Eagles’ matches during the playoff series, but the team ultimately lost the race for an intercontinental ticket to the Democratic Republic of Congo 4-3 on penalties after the game ended 1-1 in regulation time.
🇳🇬 International Call-Up! 🔵⚫️
Benjamin Fredrick is once again called up to represent Nigeria! 💪
• vs Gabon – 13/11 in Rabat, Morocco
• Possible match on 16/11 if Nigeria wins on the 13thProud of you, Benjamin! 💙🖤#FCDENDER #International pic.twitter.com/gsX8zxo9bi
— FCV Dender EH (@fcdender) November 11, 2025
According to reports emanating from Belgium, the young defender is expected to be sidelined for up to three months, ending any hopes of his participation at the continental showpiece starting next month in Morocco.
His absence comes as a significant setback for head coach Eric Chelle, as Fredrick had quickly established himself as a key figure in the squad with sterling displays at centre-back and right-back.
