AFCON 2025: Bassey Laments Fredrick’s Absence As Chelle Plays Down Defensive Concerns

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has expressed disappointment over the absence of teammate Benjamin Fredrick from Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Nigeria begin their AFCON campaign against Tanzania on Tuesday evening, but Fredrick will miss the tournament after sustaining an injury that has ruled him out for the duration.

Speaking to reporters in Morocco ahead of the opener, the Super Eagles defender said the setback was difficult to take, especially given the stage the competition offers.

“No, I’ve not spoken to him. But it is very upsetting,” the Fulham player said of Fredrick’s absence from the team.

“I feel like it would’ve been amazing for Fredrick to showcase his talent on this AFCON stage.

“I just wish him a speedy recovery, and hopefully, he can be back with us in no time.”

Fredrick, who is on loan at Belgian Pro League club Dender EH from Brentford, had been hoping to make his tournament debut before injury stopped him.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has moved to calm fears over Nigeria’s defensive options ahead of the Group stage opener.

Chelle is without three defenders following the withdrawals of William Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina and Fredrick.

Naija News reports that Troost-Ekong announced his retirement from international football after Nigeria’s provisional AFCON squad was released, while Aina is currently undergoing rehabilitation from a hamstring injury sustained against South Africa in a World Cup qualifier. Fredrick’s injury will keep him sidelined throughout the tournament.

Despite the absentees, Chelle insisted he remains confident in the players available to him.

“No, I’m not worried,” Chelle told reporters at the pre-match press conference ahead of the Tanzania clash when asked about the absence of the three players.

“I trust my players. Of course, I’d prefer these guys [Troost-Ekong, Fredrick, and Aina] to be here, but now I’m with my squad, and I trust them so much.

“We have a strong defence, we’ve worked a lot on it. We are focused on our game plan and when you want to defend, it’s not only about the defenders; it’s about all the players on the pitch.”

The Super Eagles of Nigeria and Tanzania AFCON 2025 clash will kick-off at 6:30 p.m. later today, December 23.