Ndidi reveals reason for Kanu goal celebration

Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has revealed that his Nwankwo Kanu-inspired goal celebration in Nigeria’s 3-2 win over Tunisia on Saturday was a tribute to his father.

​Ndidi delivered yet another brilliant performance for Nigeria as they locked horns with Tunisia in their second group-stage game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

​The Beşiktaş man put in a solid shift in the middle of the park, registering 94 per cent passing accuracy, five ball recoveries, two interceptions, and three clearances.

2025 AFCON: Super Eagles beat Tunisia to secure round of 16 slot

He capped off a dominant display with a goal, expertly converting a header early in the second half to give the Super Eagles some much-needed breathing space.

​Interestingly, Ndidi pulled off a unique celebration after finding the net. The Super Eagles skipper imitated Nwankwo Kanu’s iconic celebration for Nigeria after his legendary goal against Brazil at the 1996 Olympics.

Speaking after the match, Ndidi revealed that the gesture was for his dad. He explained that his father is a massive fan of Kanu and frequently revisits the Atlanta ‘96 highlights, so he decided to honour him on the big stage.

“The celebration came from my dad because he was always talking about Kanu Nwankwo. So, I just thought about my dad. I already looked at the video before, but it came to my head and I said I was going to do it for my dad,” he said.

Ndidi was born to Nigerian parents in Lagos. His father was a soldier in the Nigerian army and never wanted him to play football at first. However, he soon fell into line after Ndidi started making waves.

The Super Eagles star was born to Nigerian parents in Lagos state. And according to his account, his father never wanted him to play football.

Nonetheless, his father fell in line eventually.
Ndidi will be hoping to do more goal celebrations before the end of the 2025 AFCON.