AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Eric Chelle explains why Wilfred Ndidi played full 90 minutes despite costly error against Tanzania

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revealed that a lack of midfield alternatives on the bench forced him to keep captain Wilfred Ndidi on the pitch throughout Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania.

The Besiktas midfielder endured a difficult moment in Friday’s encounter at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo after losing possession in a dangerous area, allowing Tanzania to launch a counterattack that resulted in their equaliser.

Despite the costly mistake, Ndidi remained on the pitch as Nigeria looked to regain control of the contest and secure all three points in their opening assignment.

The 29-year-old eventually made a significant contribution to the Super Eagles’ victory, providing the assist for Tolu Arokodare to restore Nigeria’s advantage after the restart.

However, with the Super Eagles controlling proceedings in the second half, Chelle’s decision not to withdraw his captain raised questions, particularly after his earlier involvement in Tanzania’s equaliser.

Explaining his thinking after the match, the Nigerian coach disclosed that his options in midfield were limited, leaving him with little choice but to retain Ndidi for the entire contest.

“For Ndidi, there is no another midfielder on the bench,” Chelle explained. “So, he stays on the pitch.”

Ndidi makes amends after costly mistake

Ndidi’s performance against Tanzania featured contrasting moments, with the midfielder recovering from his first-half error to play an important role in Nigeria’s attacking response.

The former Leicester City star was dispossessed in a dangerous position before Tanzania capitalised on the turnover to score their equaliser and briefly threaten the Super Eagles’ control of the game.

The setback placed additional responsibility on the captain to help Nigeria regain their advantage, particularly as the hosts sought to avoid dropping points in their opening fixture.

He responded after the break by delivering the pass that allowed Arokodare to put Nigeria back in front.

The striker went on to score again, completing his brace and helping the Super Eagles secure a 3-1 victory.

Ndidi’s contribution was particularly important in restoring Nigeria’s momentum after Tanzania had threatened to make the contest difficult.

Super Eagles captain turns attention to Tanzania rematch

The victory provides Nigeria with an important boost in their pursuit of qualification, strengthening their position in the race for the group’s only qualifying spot.

For Ndidi, the immediate priority will be recovery ahead of another meeting with Tanzania on Tuesday, November 17, 2026.

The Super Eagles captain will hope to maintain his influence in midfield as Nigeria look to build on their opening victory and strengthen their qualification campaign.

Chelle will also be assessing his available midfield options before the return fixture, having acknowledged that the lack of replacements influenced his decision to keep Ndidi on the pitch in Uyo.