Nigeria captain Wilfried Ndidi said an emotional tribute to Kanu Nwankwo inspired his goal celebration after the Super Eagles dramatic 3-2 AFCON win over Tunisia in Fes.
Speaking to reporters after Saturday’s Group C encounter, Ndidi explained that the celebration was rooted in childhood memories of his father and one of Nigeria’s greatest football icons.
“I just remember my dad, my dad always talked about Kanu Nwankwo and all. I kind of like saw the video and then I said, ‘Oh, I’ll do that one, he said”
Ndidi celebrating his first ever goal for the Super Eagles. Photo Credit: Raji
Ndidi described scoring his first goal for Nigeria as a moment to savour, made sweeter by the result.
“ It was really special after a decade, it’s really amazing. And we got the win, which is wonderful.”
Nigeria were in full control for much of the contest, racing into a three-goal lead against a Tunisian side renowned for their defensive organisation. Osimhen opened the scoring before the Super Eagles extended their advantage in the second half.
Photo Credit: Raji
Wilfred Ndidi climbed highest to head home Ademola Lookman’s corner, marking his first-ever goal for the national team, before Lookman himself added a third as Nigeria broke down a defence that had not conceded during World Cup qualifying.
Despite the commanding display, the captain warned against complacency as the tournament progresses.
“Of course, you know, we won two games. We have the next game to play and we cannot be carried away, we need to stay focused and focus on the course, focus on what we want to achieve, he said.”
“So, most importantly, train hard for the next game. Of course, we hope to build a lot of wins. Try to see where we make mistakes and try to improve. We keep getting better.”
Photo Credit: Raji
Tunisia mounted a late comeback to test Nigeria’s resolve. Montassar Talbi headed in from a set piece before a VAR review awarded the Carthage Eagles a penalty, which Ali Abdi converted to raise anxiety among the Nigerian bench.
Nigeria were forced to defend deep through seven minutes of added time but held firm to secure the victory, confirming qualification for the round of 16 and top spot in Group C.
Ndidi, who looked visibly exhausted in the closing stages under heavy rain, played down the impact of the conditions.
“I know the weather, any weather we play football, you know, it doesn’t really affect anything, Yeah, of course, it was an intense game. During the last 15 minutes, last 20 minutes, of course, I feel tired. It’s normal.”
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The Super Eagles have made Fes their base and the players expressed a desire to remain there.
“Yes, of course,” Ndidi said. “The people in Fes are really nice people. So, we will try as much as possible to remain in Fes. It’s been really, really, really nice.”
Photo Credit: Poojamedia
Ndidi also had a message for supporters back home.
“I would just say, just sit home and keep enjoying and keep supporting the team,” he said. “The team is trying everything to make the country proud. We continue to try and make the country proud. Happy New Year.
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Nigeria face Uganda in their final group game, while Tunisia must beat Tanzania to keep their AFCON hopes alive.
