Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has declared Nigeria’s determination to finish top of Group C at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting the team will not lose focus as they prepare to face Uganda on Tuesday evening, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria know that a draw or victory against the Cranes will secure first place in the group and allow them to remain in the Moroccan city of Fes for the round of 16, a scenario Ndidi believes could offer a competitive edge.
All three of Nigeria’s group matches have been staged at the Fès Stadium, and the Super Eagles will continue at the venue if they end the group phase as leaders.
Ndidi, who scored in Saturday’s 3-2 win over Tunisia, says continuity matters at this stage of the tournament.
Speaking after training on Monday, the Besiktas midfielder stressed that Nigeria’s focus remains firmly on winning rather than calculating outcomes.
“We cannot be carried away, because we still have to win to be first in the group,” Ndidi noted.
“So, we have to stay focused on what we want to achieve. The most important thing is to win all our matches.”
Nigeria arrive into the final group game with momentum, having claimed back-to-back victories over Tanzania and Tunisia, one of the tournament favourites. Those results have lifted confidence within the Super Eagles camp, but Ndidi was keen to emphasise caution.
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Wilfred Ndidi: ‘We want to give Nigerians a happy New Year present'
Ndidi also spoke warmly about conditions in Fes, describing the city as welcoming and conducive for the Super Eagles as they push for continental glory.
“The people in Fes are giving us high spirits, and they are really nice to us. It’s been really, really exciting being here. We’ll give our best to remain here. The weather is good, but the match against Tunisia was intense. So, it was normal for us to get tired.”
The captain appealed directly to supporters back home, promising commitment and belief as Nigeria chase a fourth AFCON title.
“Our fans should continue to support us. We are trying everything we can to make the country proud and Nigerians happy.
“Our aim is to give Nigerians a happy New Year present by winning on Tuesday. We want to win this AFCON title.”
Beyond the immediate challenge of Uganda, Ndidi also reflected on leadership and legacy, revealing how former Chelsea and Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel shaped his own ambitions as a young footballer.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Ndidi acknowledged the responsibility carried by senior players in the current squad.
“Every player wants to be in the national team, but even the younger players, we’re the ones they look up to because I was once there, looking up to great players like [John] Mikel Obi and the rest,” Ndidi said.
“My dream also was to be part of it and I’m honoured to be here,” the Besiktas midfielder added.
Nigeria will not underestimate Uganda. History offers the Cranes quiet encouragement: the two sides have met only once at AFCON level, with Uganda claiming a 2-1 semi-final victory in 1978. Overall, Uganda hold four wins from eight meetings, with Nigeria recording two victories and two draws.
Yet form, confidence and leadership now sit with the Super Eagles, and with Ndidi setting the tone, Nigeria know exactly what is at stake.
