AFCON 2025: Ndidi vows Tunisia revenge ahead of crucial clash

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has made it clear that Nigeria will not be weighed down by past disappointment as they prepare to face Tunisia in their second Group C fixture at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Fez on Saturday.

The Carthage Eagles knocked Nigeria out at the quarter-final stage of AFCON 2021, a 1-0 defeat that still resonates within the squad.

Ndidi, who featured in that match, admits the memory remains, but insists it will serve as fuel rather than a psychological burden.

Learning from past failure

“That loss was painful,” Ndidi said during 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.”

The midfielder stressed that Nigeria’s current setup is focused on execution and mentality, not history, as the Super Eagles aim to secure early qualification in the group.

Value of experience around the squad

Ndidi also highlighted the impact of former internationals within the camp, pointing to the presence of ex-striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni during training sessions as a timely boost.

“It’s very important for ex-internationals to be with us,” he said. “These are players we grew up looking up to. When they encourage us and speak positively, it gives the group more confidence and motivation.”

Unmoved by criticism, focused on objectives

Addressing criticism of his leadership on social media, Ndidi dismissed any suggestion of distraction, insisting the squad remains aligned and focused on tournament objectives.

“There will always be negative comments, even when you do well,” he stated. “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.”

Pressure reframed as motivation

Ndidi concluded by acknowledging the expectations of Nigerian supporters, describing them as a motivating force rather than added pressure.

“We know we represent over 200 million people and how winning affects their mood,” he said. “We grew up in that system, so we’re focused on the positives. That’s what we need.”

Nigeria face Tunisia on Saturday in a fixture that could prove decisive in shaping the outcome of Group C.