Moses Simon Expresses Sadness After Super Eagles Key Player Absence From AFCON 2025

Moses Simon Expresses Sadness Over Benjamin Fredrick’s Absence from AFCON

🇳🇬 Emotional Reaction from a Teammate

Super Eagles winger Moses Simon has publicly shared his deep disappointment over the absence of his young teammate Benjamin Fredrick from Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. �

Fredrick was expected to be part of the squad after impressing with both the national team and his club, but a knee injury sustained in training with his Belgian club, FC Dender, ruled him out of the tournament. �

Nigerian Voice

💬 What Simon Said

Speaking to ESPN, Simon described the situation as “very emotional” for him — not just professionally, but personally. �

“It is an unbelievable big dream to play with the young one you helped to the top. The feeling is something else… but I am sad that he will not be here. Not because I just want us to play together, but because he would help us if he were here.” �

Simon, who runs the Simoiben Academy where Fredrick developed before moving abroad, had hoped they could share the pitch at a major tournament — a dream that now will have to wait. �

📌 Why Fredrick’s Absence Matters

Fredrick had established himself quickly in the Super Eagles defence, earning senior appearances this year. �

His versatility and confident performances had made him a key part of Nigeria’s plans, and his injury represents both a tactical and emotional setback. �

Simon’s comments reflect not only team disappointment but also a mentor-mentee bond given their shared football journey. �

🧠 In Context

Nigeria will now proceed in AFCON without the 20-year-old defender, and head coach Eric Chelle has had to adjust squad plans accordingly. �

Simon’s reaction — heartfelt and candid — shows how much Fredrick’s rise has meant to his senior teammates and the broader Nigeria setup. �