Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju has heaped praise on young defender Benjamin Frederick, calling his performance against Gabon “exceptional” and tipping him to become one of Nigeria’s most important players for years to come.
Frederick, just 19, delivered a commanding defensive display in Rabat—keeping Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang quiet for much of the game and showing composure far beyond his age. Adepoju said the teenager demonstrated elite positional awareness and bravery in duels that many older defenders struggle with.
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“He was fearless,” Adepoju said. “The way he read the game, the way he timed his tackles—this is someone with a very bright future.”
Adepoju praised Frederick’s physicality, calmness under pressure and ability to carry the ball out from the back, all of which were crucial in an intense playoff fixture. He noted that the defender did not seem overwhelmed by the occasion and played with the confidence of a seasoned professional.
He added that having a young, intelligent centre-back is exactly what Nigeria has been missing in recent years, especially with the team looking to rebuild a stable defensive foundation.
The former Real Sociedad star said Frederick’s performance is also a credit to coach Eric Chelle, who has shown willingness to trust young players in major matches. “Giving him responsibility in a playoff game shows the coach believes in the new generation,” he said.
Adepoju urged Nigerians to be patient with the youngster but insisted that if he continues on his current path, he will anchor the defence of the national team for more than a decade.
“Mark my words,” he said. “Benjamin Frederick is going to be a superstar for Nigeria. What he did against Aubameyang is not normal for a teenager.”
He added that Frederick’s confidence will be vital on Sunday when Nigeria take on DR Congo for a place in the intercontinental playoff.
