AFCON 2025: That was not a penalty - Ndidi criticises ‘Wrong’ late call after Nigeria–Tunisia clash

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has strongly criticised the controversial late penalty awarded to Tunisia during Nigeria’s dramatic encounter at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ndidi insists the referee made a clear mistake in awarding the penalty.

The incident occurred in the closing moments of the match when a Malian referee penalised Bright Osayi-Samuel for a challenge inside the penalty area.

Tunisia converted the resulting spot-kick, adding late tension to an already high-stakes contest.

Speaking to the media after the final whistle, Ndidi did not hide his frustration, expressing disbelief that the decision stood even after a VAR review.

He said, “I was surprised about the penalty decision. I’m 100 percent sure that was not a penalty because both players went for the ball and his hand was in a natural position. I was shocked that the referee even went to the VAR.”*

The former Leicester City midfielder emphasised that the contact was minimal and part of normal play, arguing that Osayi-Samuel had not committed any deliberate infringement.

With qualification already secured, Nigeria will now turn their attention to their final group match against Uganda.