AFCON 2025: Wilfred Ndidi Disagrees With Penalty Decision in Nigeria’s Win Over Tunisia

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has spoken out against the referee’s decision to award Tunisia a penalty during Nigeria’s hard-earned 3–2 victory in their AFCON 2025 Group C match on Saturday.

The controversial moment came with Nigeria leading 3–1. Bright Osayi-Samuel was penalised for handball inside the area while attempting to head away a cross. Although the referee initially allowed play to continue, VAR officials advised a review, after which the decision was overturned and a penalty awarded to Tunisia.

Despite the setback, the Super Eagles stayed composed and resisted late pressure from the Carthage Eagles to hold on for an important win.

Ndidi, however, was clearly unhappy with the ruling and shared his thoughts after the game.

“I was surprised about the penalty decision,” Ndidi told journalists after the match. “I’m 100 percent sure that was not a penalty. Both players went for the ball and his hand was in a natural position. I was shocked he went to the VAR.”