Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has issued a confident rallying cry ahead of Nigeria's pivotal second group match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Leicester City legend declared the team fully prepared to face North African giants Tunisia on Saturday, December 27.
Ndidi's Confident Declaration Ahead of Fez Clash
Speaking after Nigeria's opening victory, Ndidi left no doubt about the team's mindset. "We are 100% ready for Tunisia," the Besiktas midfielder stated emphatically. He was, however, tight-lipped about the tactical approach for the crucial encounter in Fez, Morocco, indicating that strategies would remain within the camp.
Ndidi explained that the squad would first conduct a thorough review of their 2-1 win over Tanzania on Tuesday, December 23. "On how we'll approach the match, I cannot say anything for now. The team will go back and learn from the Tanzania game before approaching the Carthage Eagles," he said, highlighting a focus on continuous improvement.
Building on a Winning Start in Morocco
The three-time AFCON champions secured their first three points of the tournament with a hard-fought victory against the Taifa Stars. Goals from Hull City defender Semi Ajayi and Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman were enough to seal the win at the Complexe Sportif de Fes.
Tanzania's equalizer came from Floriana FC midfielder Charles M'Mbombwa, capitalizing on a moment of misjudgment by Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. Despite the conceded goal, Ndidi described the opening match as a "good win" and a decent platform to build upon. "The first game of the tournament is always like this but there is always room for improvement," he added.
Captain's Pride and Group C Standings
Ndidi also reflected on the honour of leading the national team at a major tournament. "It is an amazing experience leading the team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. It is a task that I needed to step up and it is good," the former Genk star shared.
The victory places Nigeria second in Group C standings, trailing only Tunisia who top the group after a commanding 3-1 victory over Uganda in Rabat. This sets the stage for a top-of-the-table clash that could prove decisive for the group's outcome.
Meanwhile, the other Group C fixture will see Uganda and Tanzania face off, with both teams seeking their first points after losing their opening matches.
As the Super Eagles fine-tune their plans, the message from their captain is clear: Nigeria is ready, focused, and determined to claim another vital victory on the road to AFCON glory.
