Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has called for calm after Nigeria’s less-than-stellar opening victory against Tanzania at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), insisting that the most important objective, which is three vital points, has been achieved.
Ndidi acknowledged the familiar challenges that come with the first game of a major tournament, describing it as a test of rhythm, fitness, and mentality.
“It was a good game,” the midfielder said after the Super Eagles soared past the Taifa Stars on Tuesday.
“First game of a tournament is always like this, getting the momentum and all, but it was really, really good. We got the three points, which is the most important.”
Nigeria dominated much of the first half in the 2-1 win, setting the tempo and showing glimpses of the attacking intent expected of them.
Nigeria’s defender #06 Semi Ajayi and Tanzania’s forward #10 Ally Samatta vie during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) Group C football match between Nigeria and Tanzania at Fez Stadium in Fes on December 23, 2025. (Photo by Abdel Majid BZIOUAT / AFP)
However, the second half proved more demanding, with the Super Eagles coming under pressure and struggling to maintain their earlier control. But Nigeria’s quality proved decisive on the night and ensured the three-time African champions took all three points at stake.
Ndidi was candid in his assessment of the game, admitting that the performance dipped after the break, but praised the team’s reaction.
“The first half was good, the pace was good. In the second half, maybe we were a bit tired or something. It didn’t go well, but we reacted very, very well. I’m proud of the team,” the Besiktas midfielder said.
