Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has emphasized the team’s unity and focus as Nigeria prepares to face Tanzania in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Monday, Ndidi dismissed any notions of pressure within the camp, highlighting the positive atmosphere and collective readiness among players and staff.
“The spirit in camp is very high, and this game is very important for us because it sets the momentum,” Ndidi stated. “Everyone is ready, from the players to the coaching crew and the backroom staff. Our focus is fully on this first game, and we know how important it is to start well.”
Addressing expectations and the weight that often comes with wearing the green and white at a major tournament, the midfield general made it clear that the squad is not feeling burdened by pressure.
“To be honest, there is no pressure,” he added. “We have experienced senior players in the team, and everyone is helping one another alongside the coach and the manager. I’ve been part of this system long before becoming captain, so I understand the environment very well. We are calm, confident, and ready.”
Ndidi, who now plays for Besiktas in the Turkish Super Lig, is set to make his third AFCON appearance, having debuted in the 2019 edition where Nigeria secured a third-place finish. He missed the 2023 tournament due to injury, during which the Super Eagles reached the final but were narrowly defeated by hosts Côte d’Ivoire.
With a blend of experience, leadership, and renewed hunger, Ndidi’s message is clear: Nigeria heads into AFCON 2025 not weighed down by expectation, but driven by belief, unity, and purpose.
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