Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has spoken after Nigeria’s dramatic 3–2 victory over Tunisia on Saturday in their second group-stage match of the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, reflecting on a historic personal moment, the team’s focus, and support from fans back home.

The Besiktas midfielder marked the occasion by scoring his first senior international goal for Nigeria after a decade with the national team.

Ndidi found the net in the second half, heading home a corner delivered by Ademola Lookman to extend Nigeria’s lead in a closely contested encounter.

After scoring, Ndidi paid tribute to Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu by recreating Kanu’s iconic celebration from the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.

The celebration referenced Kanu’s famous dance following Nigeria’s memorable comeback victory over Brazil in the Olympic semifinals.

Explaining the reason behind the celebration, Ndidi said: “I just remember my dad, my dad always talk about Kanu and all. So I said I kind of like saw the video and then I said oh I will do that one for my dad.”

Reflecting on finally getting his name on the scoresheet for Nigeria, the Super Eagles captain described the moment as emotional and meaningful.

He said: “It was really special, after a decade scoring my first goal is really amazing and we got the win which is more important.”

Ndidi also emphasized the need for calm and discipline despite the positive result, underlining the captain’s mindset within the squad.

He stated: “Of course you know it just two games we have the next game to play and we cannot be carried. We still stay focused and focus on the course, the most important thing is the next game. Of course, we keep getting better after this game, we go to the drawing board, try to see where mistakes and try to improve.”

Asked whether the team would like to remain in Fes, Morocco, for the remainder of the group phase, Ndidi responded positively, saying: “Yes, of course. The people in Fes are really welcoming, are really nice people. So we'll try as much as possible to remain in Fes.”

Addressing concerns about fatigue following an intense match played in rainy conditions, Ndidi downplayed the impact of the weather.

He said: “It didn't affect anything. Yeah, of course it was an intense game uh during the last 15 minutes, last 20 minutes. Of course, I'll feel tired. It's normal.”

In a message to Nigerians, the captain added: “ I'll just say  just sit home and keep enjoying and keep supporting the team. The team is trying everything to make the country proud and we'll continue to try and make the country proud and happy new year.”

The Super Eagles will face Uganda in their final group-phase match on Tuesday.

Wale Adejumo