Benjamin Fredrick emerged as a key figure for Nigeria in their recent clashes against Lesotho and Benin.
The Super Eagles delivered a commanding 4-0 triumph over Benin in their concluding fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers yesterday.
Victor Osimhen dazzled with a hat-trick, while Frank Onyeka secured the victory with a goal during stoppage time, ensuring Nigeria’s progression to the World Cup playoffs.
This match marked one of Nigeria’s most impressive displays in the past two years, with numerous players stepping up. Among them, Dender defender Benjamin Fredrick stood out despite being deployed out of his usual position, effectively neutralizing Benin’s attacking threats.
Here, we delve into five intriguing insights about Benjamin Fredrick that might have escaped your attention.
1. Benjamin Fredrick’s Roots Trace Back to Moses Simon’s Football Academy
Benjamin Fredrick’s football journey began at the Simoiben Academy in Kaduna, an institution founded by Nigerian international Moses Simon and his wife, Ibukun.
Fredrick is among the academy’s notable success stories, and he regards Simon as a significant mentor in his development.
2. Brief Spells in Nigeria’s Domestic Leagues
Prior to his move overseas, Fredrick had short engagements with ABS in the Nigeria National League during 2022 and later with Nasarawa United in the Nigeria Professional Football League in 2023.
During his tenure at Nasarawa United, he featured in six top-flight matches, with the team recording four losses and two draws in those games.
3. A Rising Star at Brentford FC
Currently contracted to English Premier League side Brentford, Fredrick is gaining valuable experience on loan at a Belgian club.
He initially signed a one-year contract with Brentford in 2023, but after an outstanding season crowned by winning the youth team’s Player of the Year award, the club extended his deal.
4. Exceptional Adaptability on the Field
Although primarily recognized as a central defender, Fredrick surprised many Nigerian supporters by featuring as a right-back in recent matches against Lesotho and Benin. His versatility is a major asset, with the only defensive position he does not cover being left-back.
Moreover, he is capable of stepping into a nigeria-vs-colombia-flying-eagles-u20-world-cup-lineup/” title=”… vs Colombia: Key Starters and Surprises as … Battle for U-20 World Cup Last-16 Spot”>defensive midfield role when required, showcasing his tactical flexibility.
5. Former Standout for Nigeria’s Flying Eagles
Wishing Benjamin Fredrick and the Flying Eagles the best of luck at the Under-20 World Cup. Go make us proud! pic.twitter.com/VxmoIxtP6P
– SIMOIBEN FOOTBALL CLUB KADUNA NIG (@SimoibenN) May 7, 2023
Fredrick was a key member of the Aliyu Zubairu-led squad that advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2023 FIFA Under-20 World Cup.
He distinguished himself as one of the team’s top performers and remains the sole player from that squad to have earned a call-up to the senior Super Eagles team.
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