By Milcah Tanmiu

Wilfred Ndidi, the Super Eagles and Leicester City midfielder, has expressed confidence in the Nigerian football team’s ability to reach the final of the AFCON 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast. Despite being sidelined due to a muscle injury sustained in a match against Cardiff City just before the new year, Ndidi has been actively supporting his team.

Ndidi, who has played a crucial role in Leicester City’s EFL Championship campaign, scoring two goals and providing five assists in seventeen games, was originally included in the 40-man provisional AFCON squad list. However, due to his injury, he won’t be able to participate in the tournament.

In a punditry session with Neil Warnock and Troy Deeney during Leicester City’s 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, Ndidi expressed his joy for the Super Eagles’ qualification to the round of sixteen in the AFCON tournament. He encouraged the team to aim for the final, stating, “Just try as much as possible to get to the final.”

Ndidi, a one-time FA Cup winner, emphasized the team’s strategic planning, urging them to take each game as it comes. He highlighted the unpredictable nature of football but affirmed the team’s goal to progress through each stage.

Regarding his own recovery, Ndidi revealed that he has undergone surgery and is on track for a full recovery. He expressed optimism about returning to football action in about two weeks.

The Super Eagles are set to face the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in the round of sixteen in the AFCON tournament