Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi has challenged Nigeria to build on their opening victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting there is still room for improvement ahead of the crucial Group C encounter against Tunisia.
The newly elected captain says lessons from Tanzania win must fuel improvement as Nigeria targets momentum at AFCON 2025 as they seek to claim automatic Round of 16 ticket in their second group game.
Speaking from the team’s camp base in Fez, Morocco, Ndidi stated that while the 2–1 win over Tanzania delivered the most important three points outcome, the performance also provided valuable lessons the team must address before their next fixture.
“The First Game Is About Momentum” – Ndidi
Reflecting on Nigeria’s tournament opener, Ndidi said the importance of Tanzani’s game is that it was more of a foundation match, not the finished product.
“We’re actually training for that. We have to learn from the Tanzanian game, going into the Tunisian game.”
“The first game of a tournament is always like getting momentum, but there’s always room for improvement.”
The Super Eagles took the lead through Semi Ajayi, were briefly pegged back by Tanzania, and then reclaimed control through Ademola Lookman’s quick response.
While pleased with the result, Ndidi made it clear the team must now elevate their overall performance.
Three Points Secured, Focus Shifts Forward
Ndidi emphasized that securing maximum points in the opening match was critical to Nigeria’s ambitions in the competition, providing a platform to grow in confidence and cohesion.
“I would say the most important thing, we got three points, which is mostly important.”
“We’ll just try and get back to seeing things we needed to improve on and look forward to the next one.”
With the pressure of the first game behind them, the captain believes the Super Eagles can now approach the Tunisia clash with greater clarity and belief.
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Preparation Intensifies in Fez
Nigeria have remained in Fez since their opening fixture, using the stability of their camp base to fine-tune tactical details and recovery routines.
The focus, according to Ndidi, is on correcting lapses observed against Tanzania and raising both performance levels and confidence.
Tunisia, one of Africa’s most experienced tournament sides, present a sterner test, one that could significantly shape the group standings race.
As the Super Eagles continue preparations, Ndidi said winning is essential, but growth is non-negotiable as Nigeria now turn their attention fully to Tunisia, aiming a back-to-back win at AFCON 2025.
With momentum established and lessons identified, Nigeria now turn their attention fully to Tunisia, aiming not just for another result, but a performance that reflects their ambition at AFCON 2025.
