Nigeria captain Wilfred Ndidi has emphasised growth, confidence, and team unity as the Super Eagles prepare to face Tunisia in their second group-stage match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Both sides enter the fixture on the back of opening wins, setting up a crucial encounter in Fez. Ndidi insisted the focus remains on establishing new standards for Nigeria’s emerging generation.
“But it’s about growth, about a new generation and we’re actually here to set our own standards. We’re here to achieve our goals, that’s why we’re here,” he told reporters.
Ahead of Nigeria’s opening match against Tanzania, football icon Yakubu Ayegbeni visited the Super Eagles’ Fez camp to boost morale. Ndidi praised the former striker’s presence, highlighting the importance of encouragement from past internationals.
“It is very important for former internationals to be part of the group, not just to be around us, but to speak positively about the team and give us confidence,” Ndidi said. “When they talk well about us, it boosts belief because many of these players grew up looking up to them. Coming into the camp, offering support and speaking highly of the squad gives us more confidence and really motivates the team.”
Ndidi also dismissed any concerns over criticism on social media, stressing that outside opinions will not distract the squad.
“Of course not, there will always be negative comments on social media even when you do well, so it is not affecting the group. We’re here to play football, we know where we stand and we know what we want to achieve,” he added. “Our main focus is this tournament and achieving greatly. Whatever comes on social media is just people’s opinions. Our focus is on the next game. We are here to represent over 200 million Nigerians across the world.”
The Super Eagles enter the game unbeaten in their last seven AFCON group-stage matches, having won their last three by narrow 1-0 margins. Tunisia, meanwhile, have remained unbeaten in their second group matches in each of the last five AFCONs, with their last loss in this fixture coming against Côte d’Ivoire in 2013.
As Nigeria look to maintain their strong AFCON record, Ndidi’s message of focus, confidence, and growth sets the tone for a team eager to assert itself on the continental stage.
