Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has opened up about Nigeria's Unity Cup victory against Ghana, revealing that the match was driven by national pride and ego.
The Leicester City star, who played a crucial role in Nigeria's triumph in the tournament held in May this year, emphasized the importance of defeating their West African rivals regardless of the final outcome.
"The Ghana game was more of settling our ego; we had to win that one. It does not matter if we lose the final," Ndidi recently disclosed during an appearance on The Culture League podcast.
The 28-year-old midfielder featured prominently in matches against Ghana and Jamaica as Nigeria secured the Unity Cup for the third time in the competition's history.
Ndidi also commented on the attendance at the tournament, noting the strong support from other participating nations. "The turnout was good. For Ghanaians, they came out, Jamaicans came out. I feel like Nigerians, we wanted to see how it went first, then the next one, they would come. But the turn up for other countries was much," he added.
The Nigeria-Ghana football rivalry remains one of the most intense in African football, with matches between the two nations often transcending sport to become matters of national pride and bragging rights.
Ndidi's comments highlight the special significance attached to encounters between these neighboring countries, regardless of the tournament or competition.
The midfielder continues to be a vital player for both his club and country, with his performances attracting interest from several European clubs, including Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, according to recent transfer reports.
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