Simon rues Fredrick’s AFCON absence

Nigeria winger Moses Simon is hurt by the absence of his academy product, Benjamin Fredrick, from the Super Eagles squad as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be played from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026 in Morocco, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Fredrick, who broke into the national team in May, was ruled out by an unfortunate knee injury he sustained weeks before the tournament. Regarded as one of Nigeria’s most promising defensive talents, he had been strongly tipped to make the AFCON squad after stringing together a number of impressive performances.

He was left out of coach Eric Chelle’s 28-man squad as a result.

The setback has been particularly painful for Simon, who joined the team’s camp in Egypt on Tuesday before proceeding to Fez, their base in Morocco.

Fredrick is a product of the Simoiben Academy, established and run by Simon.

“It is very emotional for me,” Simon told ESPN.

“It is a very special dream to play alongside a young player you helped guide to the top. The feeling is extraordinary. It is like a father and son sharing the pitch.”

“It brings me happiness and pride — pride in myself, in my work and in the people who have supported me along the way. But I am also sad that he will not be here. Not just because we won’t play together, but because he would have contributed greatly if he was available.”

Fredrick’s ascendancy has been swift and impressive. After making his senior international debut at the invitational Unity Cup in May, he quickly established himself as a dependable presence in Nigeria’s defence.

He featured in Nigeria’s last four World Cup qualifiers and delivered assured displays during November’s decisive play-off matches against Gabon and DR Congo. His consistency made his inclusion in the AFCON squad seem almost certain.

Fredrick’s football journey began at the Simoiben Academy in Kaduna, founded by Simon and his wife.

Before moving overseas to join Brentford, he navigated the demanding local football scene, featuring for ABS FC in the Nigeria National League and Nasarawa United in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

His European opportunity arrived in 2023 when Brentford signed him on a one-year contract. He quickly caught the eye, claiming the club’s Youth Player of the Year award, earning a contract extension and securing a loan move to Belgian outfit K.F.C. Dender E.H.