Captain Fantastic!: Ndidi nets first-ever Nigeria goal on 73rd appearance

Wilfred Ndidi marked his 73rd cap for Nigeria with his first-ever international goal, a milestone strike that came in the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 second group phase clash against Tunisia in Fès, Morocco.

The 28-year-old Besiktas midfielder, who recently assumed the captaincy, rose to the occasion by scoring Nigeria’s second goal of the night, underlining his growing influence as leader of the team.
Atalanta of Italy forward, Ademola Lookman delivered the assist It was his second assist, this time from a corner, and captain Ndidi leapt highest to head it past the Tunisian goalkeeper.

Victor Osimhen had earlier opened the scoring with his second AFCON goal in 10 appearances, but despite the captain’s breakthrough, Nigeria were unable to hold on for victory. The match ended without a win for the Super Eagles, leaving Ndidi’s personal achievement as the standout moment of the evening.

His goal carries symbolic weight, echoing the contributions of his predecessor who found the net three times at the last AFCON. For Ndidi, it was a long-awaited first strike in national colours, a reminder of his consistency and resilience across more than 70 appearances.