AFCON 2025: Nostalgia in Fès As Ndidi Recreates Kanu’s Iconic Celebration

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi brought nostalgia to millions of Nigerian football fans on Saturday, recreating Nwankwo Kanu’s iconic Atlanta 1996 Olympic celebration after scoring Nigeria’s second goal in their thrilling AFCON 2025 Group C clash against Tunisia.

Ndidi, recently handed the captain’s armband following William Troost-Ekong’s resignation and the earlier stepping down of former skipper Ahmed Musa, soared highest to power home a header from an Ademola Lookman corner at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, Morocco.

The Besiktas midfielder sprinted to the corner flag, spreading his arms wide in Kanu’s famous pose, before switching into his trademark Eagles-soaring celebration, surrounded by jubilant teammates.

Earlier, Victor Osimhen had given Nigeria the lead in the 44th minute, capping a dominant first half display.

Ndidi’s towering header doubled the advantage moments into the second half, before Ademola Lookman extended the lead to 3-0, sealing what initially looked like a comfortable victory.

Tunisia, refusing to fold, launched a fierce comeback, scoring twice to trim the deficit to 3-2 and set up a tense finale.

Despite the late pressure, Nigeria held firm to claim all three points in a match packed with drama and intensity.

The win confirms Nigeria’s place in the AFCON 2025 knockout stage, keeping alive their pursuit of a fourth continental title.

Super Eagles fans around the world erupted at Ndidi’s tribute to Kanu, celebrating not just the goal, but a moment that echoed one of the most cherished celebrations in Nigeria’s football history.