Wilfred Ndidi has defused a major internal crisis within the Nigeria camp just hours before the Super Eagles’ Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final meeting with Algeria in Marrakech.
Tension gripped Nigeria’s base in Fez on the eve of the decisive encounter after players raised strong اعتراض over unpaid victory bonuses.
The squad had not received payments owed from the group stage or their round-of-16 win against Mozambique, and frustration quickly escalated.
Players threatened to boycott training sessions and refused to travel for the quarter-final unless the Nigerian Football Federation and the federal government resolved the issue.
The standoff placed Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign at serious risk. Preparations for one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures stalled as discussions continued behind closed doors.
With focus drifting away from the pitch, the possibility of disruption loomed large at a critical moment in the competition.
Ndidi, the team captain, moved swiftly to restore calm and direction. He addressed both players and technical staff, urging unity and discipline ahead of the Algeria clash.
In a decisive show of leadership, the midfielder offered a personal guarantee that shifted the mood within the camp.
“I have pledged to the staff and players that I will personally pay the bonuses if the authorities do not do so before Saturday,” Ndidi told the group. “I do not want these unpaid bonuses to affect our preparation.”
His intervention eased tensions and allowed the team to refocus on football matters. The gesture reinforced Ndidi’s standing within the squad and underlined his commitment to collective success over individual grievances.
Players responded positively, recognising the importance of maintaining concentration ahead of a knockout match where margins remain unforgiving.
Nigeria now turn full attention to Algeria, a side known for discipline and intensity at major tournaments. The quarter-final in Marrakech carries high stakes, with a place in the semi-finals on the line.
Ndidi’s resolve, both as a leader and as a player, could shape the outcome as the Super Eagles aim to extend their AFCON journey.
As kickoff approaches, Nigeria seek to draw strength from unity rather than division.
The crisis may have threatened to derail their campaign, but decisive leadership has kept the Super Eagles on course at one of the most decisive stages of AFCON 2025.
