Coach Felix Ifeanyi Nwosu has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to cope with the absence of three key defenders—William Troost-Ekong, Benjamin Fredrick and Ola Aina—ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
READ ALSO: Retired Super Eagles Skipper Troost-Ekong Shares Emotional Message After Receiving MFR Certificate
Speaking with Sports247, Nwosu admitted that the trio will be missed but insisted that Nigeria’s depth and quality should see the team through the tournament.
On former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, Nwosu described his decision to step aside as understandable and timely.
“William Troost-Ekong knows he is getting old, and quitting at this stage is a good decision for his career and also for Nigeria, because it will create space for younger players to grow,” he said.
“We will miss his experience, no doubt, but the team will cope without his presence on the field.”
Nwosu also lamented the injury that has ruled Benjamin Fredrick out of the tournament, describing it as a significant blow.
“It’s unfortunate that Benjamin Fredrick has to miss the AFCON due to injury. That is a great loss for the country, and he will surely be missed,” he noted.
“However, as a coach, I know we have good cover for him because of the level of talent in the squad. The Super Eagles’ defence should cope without him.”
On Ola Aina, Nwosu acknowledged another major absence but pointed to recent performances as evidence of adequate replacements.
“As for Ola Aina, that’s another miss the coaching crew must find a way to cope with,” he said.
“Our last couple of matches in the FIFA playoffs showed that we have good cover for him, both at right-back and left-back.”
Despite the defensive setbacks, Nwosu remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances at AFCON 2025.
“I expect Nigeria to go far at the AFCON despite the absence of these three top defenders,” he said.
“We have talented players, and I hope the coaches get their tactics right. Nigeria should always be competing to win every edition of the AFCON.”
Looking ahead to the opening match against Tanzania, Nwosu expressed confidence in a positive start.
“We should start well from today against Tanzania,” he added. “I’m sure we will begin on the right footing and beat Tanzania for a confidence-boosting start.”
