Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi has opened up on his experience leading Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, describing the responsibility as a huge privilege.
Ndidi, who missed Nigeria’s dramatic semi-final penalty shootout loss to hosts Morocco due to accumulated yellow cards, will return to action as the Super Eagles aim to finish their AFCON campaign on a positive note.
He also revealed his pride in the team’s collective effort ahead of the third-place (bronze medal) match against Egypt.
Ndidi on Captaining the Super Eagles
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Leicester City midfielder reflected on what it has meant to wear the captain’s armband for Nigeria on the continental stage.
“It’s been amazing for a long time. Being the captain is a great privilege for me.”
“Also, with the help of the coach, the players, the leaders in the team, it’s a great privilege.”
Ndidi emphasised that leadership within the Super Eagles goes beyond one individual, stating how the collective responsibility is shared across the squad.
“It’s Not Just Me as a Captain” – Ndidi
The 28-year-old made it clear that the team’s unity and structure have been central to Nigeria’s journey at AFCON 2025, highlighting the importance of teamwork and shared leadership within the Super Eagles setup.
“When we talk about the experience for me as a captain, it’s not just me as a captain. It boils down to the coach and to the leaders of the team.”
Despite the disappointment of falling short of the final, Ndidi expressed his pride in his teammates and their performances throughout the tournament.
“This team I am very proud of. They do very well. They don’t do great things in this competition. And it’s been amazing.”
Nigeria’s AFCON journey came to a painful halt in the semi-finals after a goalless draw against Morocco ended in a penalty shootout defeat, a result Ndidi admitted was difficult to accept.
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Looking Ahead to Egypt Clash
While acknowledging the pain of elimination, the Super Eagles captain stressed the need to quickly refocus as Nigeria prepare to face Egypt in the bronze medal match.
“We don’t reach towards the end of the competition. And it was a painful loss from the last one.”
“But we just look forward to the next one and try to get something out of it. It will be a very great game.”
Ndidi’s return for the third-place play-off provides a significant boost for Nigeria as they chase a record ninth AFCON bronze medal.
With leadership restored in midfield and motivation high, the Super Eagles will look to close their AFCON 2025 campaign with silverware when they face Egypt, as Ndidi and his teammates aim to turn disappointment into pride on the continental stage.
