We don't want to think about 2021 â?? Nigeria's Ndidi reflects on painful exit ahead of Tunisia clash

Wilfred Ndidi says the memory of Nigeria's shock 2021 Africa Cup of Nations elimination is a powerful motivator as the Super Eagles prepare to face Tunisia again in the 2025 tournament this Saturday.

Nigeria, after a flawless group stage in 2021, were heavy favourites but were stunned 1-0 in the Round of 16 by a Youssef Msakni goal for Tunisia.

Speaking ahead of the December 27 clash (20:00 GMT), the Nigerian captain acknowledged the pain of that defeat but stressed the team’s focus is on rewriting history.

"It was a painful loss in 2021. We don’t want to think about what happened, we just want to face this one because it is a new team, [with a] good players group," Ndidi said at a press conference.

He confirmed, however, that the past serves as a reminder: "It gives us more confidence and more motivation. We talk about it and it’s not going to happen twice, hopefully."

Both teams head into the match with momentum from opening victories. Nigeria secured a 2-1 win over Tanzania, while Tunisia defeated Uganda 3-1.

The stage is set for a high-stakes encounter where Nigeria seeks redemption, and Tunisia aims to prove their previous win was no fluke.

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