AFCON 2025: ‘It was not a difficult match’ - Ndidi claims Tanzania game was not as tough as people think

Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-1 win over Tanzania in Group C. 

The Super Eagles opened the scoring in the first half when Semi Ajayi successfully headed home an Alex Iwobi cross. 

Tanzania, however, briefly drew level after the break when Charles M'Mombwa capitalised on a Nigerian defensive mistake.

The tie was quickly broken, as Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria's lead just two minutes later with what proved to be the decisive goal.

Ndidi, leading the team as captain in a major tournament for the first time, stressed that the game was not as tough as it may have seemed to observers.

"It is an amazing experience leading the team. It’s a task, which I needed to step up to, so it has been good so far," Ndidi told Proudly Austin. 

"It was a good win, which is the most important thing. The first game of a tournament is always like this, about getting the momentum, but there's always room for improvement."

He added, "The most important thing is that we got the three points. We’ll go back, watch the game, see the things we need to improve on and then look forward to the next one."

Ndidi insisted that while every match presents its own challenges, Nigeria was largely in control. "It was not a difficult match. 

“The first half was good. In the second half we stayed back a bit, which made it look difficult, but every game is difficult. It's just about what we can do, hurt the opponents, this is why we are Nigerians."

The team now turn their attention to the next fixture against Tunisia at the Fez Stadium on Saturday night as they look to guarantee qualification for the round of 16.