Video: No pressure on Super Eagles captaincy says Ndidi as Chelle vows defensive steel for Tanzania clash
Abdullateef Fowewe
Nigeria Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi has dismissed any notions of pressure ahead of their crucial AFCON match against Tanzania, crediting senior teammates and a structured leadership transition for keeping the squad steady.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Ndidi emphasised the high standards set by recent campaigns, even as the team rebuilds without some key stars.
“There’s no pressure because I’ve got senior players in the team helping out with help of coach, staff and managers,” Ndidi said.
“We have been seeing a system learning from former captain to second so there is not much pressure at all. Unfortunately we couldn’t get the trophy but we cannot go below that. The standards are already high.”
Ndidi, who took over the armband following the disappointments of the previous AFCON and World Cup qualification failure, expressed confidence in the current roster.
“Of course I prefer that all of these guys are here but now with my guy, and trust in them so much we have a big difference,” he added, signaling unity despite absences.
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle reinforced the team’s focus, framing the match as a pivotal step in their “grand project.”
He highlighted collective responsibility in defense, amid reflections on past setbacks.
“Everyone is really into what happened at the previous AFCON not qualifying for World Cup. So everyone’s focus on this one as an opportunity,” Chelle stated.
“Like I said, it’s our grand project. When you want to defend this is not only a question about the defender but also all of players on pitch.
“Everybody focuses on that. Definitely we are ready to play in this game.”
