…Ndidi unfazed by critics over captaincy
Wilfred Ndidi has insisted Nigeria’s past Africa Cup of Nations heartbreak against Tunisia will not define the Super Eagles’ approach as they prepare to face the North Africans once again, this time in their second Group C game at the 2025 AFCON in Fez, Morocco, on Saturday.
Tunisia edged the Super Eagles 1–0 in the quarter-finals of AFCON 2021, and Ndidi, who featured in that match, admits the disappointment still lingers. However, he says the setback has been addressed within the squad, with the focus now firmly on producing a different outcome.
“That loss was painful,” Ndidi said at the pre-match press conference. “But it also gives us confidence. We’ve spoken about it, and we don’t want it to happen twice. This is a new team with good players, and we just want to face this game on its own.”
Ndidi also stressed the value of experience around the team, following the involvement of former striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni in training. Ndidi believes the presence of past greats provides timely encouragement and belief, especially during the pressures of a major tournament.
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“It’s very important for ex-internationals to be with us,” he said. “Not just to come around, but to speak highly of the team. These are players we grew up looking up to, so when they encourage us and speak positively, it gives the group more confidence and motivation.”
Ndidi was unmoved by criticism of his leadership circulating on social media, insisting it has had no bearing on him or his teammates. According to the Nigeria captain, the group remains united and fully focused on its objectives.
“There will always be negative comments, even when you do well,” he said. “It’s not affecting the group. We know what we want to achieve, and our focus is on the tournament, not opinions on social media.”
The 27-year-old also acknowledged the weight of expectation from supporters back home, describing Nigerian fans as a major source of motivation rather than pressure. He said the players are acutely aware of what success at the tournament would mean beyond the pitch.
“Nigerians are really supportive, and we’re happy about that,” Ndidi added. “We know we represent over 200 million people and how winning affects their mood. We grew up in that system, so we’re focused on the positives because that’s what we need.”
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