Former South African international Shaun Bartlett has described Wilfred Ndidi as Nigeria\u2019s most crucial player at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), overlooking high-profile stars such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi. Bartlett said the defensive midfielder has been the \u201cun…<\/p>\n
Former South African international Shaun Bartlett has described Wilfred Ndidi as Nigeria\u2019s most crucial player at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), overlooking high-profile stars such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi.<\/p>\n
Bartlett said the defensive midfielder has been the \u201cunsung hero\u201d of the Super Eagles, playing a vital role that has not received enough recognition during the tournament.<\/p>\n
According to him, Ndidi\u2019s performances in the heart of midfield have been central to Nigeria\u2019s success, even though much of the attention has focused on the team\u2019s attacking players.<\/p>\n
Nigeria felt the impact of his absence in Wednesday\u2019s semifinal clash against Morocco in Rabat. The Besiktas midfielder missed the match due to suspension after accumulating two yellow cards earlier in the competition.<\/p>\n
Without Ndidi anchoring the midfield, the Super Eagles struggled to assert control in the middle of the park. For the first time in the tournament, Nigeria were outplayed in terms of possession, highlighting the importance of his ball-winning ability.<\/p>\n
Before the encounter with the Atlas Lions, Nigeria had won all their matches and scored 14 goals on their way to the semifinals. However, against Morocco, the team found it difficult to maintain their usual rhythm.<\/p>\n