Franke Onyeka’s absence leaves a midfield void for the Super Eagles, with Finidi George set to look at Raphael Onyedika or Alhassan Yusuf as the likely replacement
Nigeria have been dealt a blow ahead of their international friendly against Mali with the departure of key midfielder Frank Onyeka from their training camp in Morocco.
Onyeka, who started alongside Wilfred Ndidi in Nigeria’s 3-5-2 formation against Ghana last week, has left the Super Eagles squad due to personal reasons.
His absence leaves interim head coach Finidi George with a dilemma in midfield for Today’s game against the West African rivals in Marrakesh.
Onyedika & Yusuf Lead Contenders
Two names have emerged as the prime candidates to replace Onyeka and partner Ndidi at the base of Nigeria’s midfield – Raphael Onyedika and Alhassan Yusuf.
Onyedika, 22, came off the bench against Ghana to impress and could now be rewarded with a start having also impressed for Belgian club Club Brugge this season.
Yusuf, 23, is another talented young midfield option who has caught the eye with his performances for Belgian champions Royale Antwerp in the Jupiler.
Both players boast the energy, tenacity and passing ability to complement Ndidi’s holding role and have youth very much on their side.
Finidi has ample talent to call upon but replacing Onyeka’s experience could be challenging to replicate immediately given the 26-year-old Premier League star’s proven status at the international level.
The Brentford man has made 25 appearances for the Super Eagles since his debut in 2020, with the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations being his breakout tournament for Nigeria.
Finidi must now weigh up going with unproven but exciting options like Onyedika and Yusuf, or turning to trusted veterans as Nigeria continues World Cup 2026 and AFCON 2025 qualifying preparations.
Whatever the case, Nigerians will be keen to see which direction the interim coach goes against an always-tough Malian outfit as he strives to build on his first win as Nigeria’s boss.
