Defender Benjamin Fredrick is set to miss next month’s Africa Cup of Nations after sustaining an injury during training with Belgian side FC Dender.

The 20-year-old, who has been one of the standout performers for the Super Eagles in the final round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, is expected to spend several weeks on the sidelines.

According to reports, the Brentford loanee will be out for 8 to 12 weeks, effectively ruling him out of the continental showpiece in Morocco.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly begun the search for a replacement, a tough task considering how quickly Fredrick captured the hearts of fans with his composed, fearless displays.

Fredrick, a former youth international, made his senior debut during the Unity Cup in London and went on to feature consistently in the World Cup qualifiers, including the recent defeat to DR Congo in Rabat.

His injury adds to Nigeria’s growing list of absentees, with key players like Victor Osimhen and Ola Aina also currently sidelined.