Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has addressed the backlash that followed his missed chance during Nigeria’s 1–1 draw against Zimbabwe in their 2026 World Cup qualifying clash.
The 28 year old Leicester City man played a key role in the midfield but came under heavy criticism after failing to convert a chance that could have doubled Nigeria’s lead late in the game. With Victor Osimhen putting the Super Eagles ahead in the 74th minute, Ndidi missed a clear opportunity to seal the win before Zimbabwe equalised through Tawada Chidera in the 90th minute.
Disappointed fans quickly turned to social media, expressing frustration at the missed opportunity. Despite the criticism, Ndidi responded with grace and humility. Posting on Instagram Stories, he wrote: “Please make una no vex for goal wey I miss. Nobody perfect for his job.”
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The comment sparked mixed reactions. Some fans applauded his honesty and calm demeanour, while others remained critical, citing the growing pressure on the team’s qualification hopes.
Nigeria were widely expected to secure all three points, and the result has left their World Cup campaign in a more precarious position. As the Super Eagles prepare for friendlies in June and resume their qualifiers in September, Ndidi and his teammates will aim to move forward with renewed focus and determination.
Editorial
We need to have a real conversation about the pressure we place on our players. Wilfred Ndidi’s miss against Zimbabwe was painful no doubt. But the intense reaction from fans has once again highlighted how unforgiving the national spotlight can be.
One moment can shape public opinion, and sadly, it often overshadows the work a player puts in across 90 minutes or an entire career. Ndidi has been a pillar for Nigeria, offering composure and reliability in midfield. Yet one missed shot, one imperfect moment, drew a tidal wave of criticism. Is this the standard we want to set?
Let’s be honest: football is full of highs and lows. We celebrate our players when they shine, but we must also stand by them when things don’t go as planned. Ndidi’s response wasn’t defensive; it was human. Acknowledging fault with humility “Nobody is perfect for his job” speaks volumes. That’s leadership in its own right.
The World Cup qualifiers are a marathon, not a sprint. Nigeria still has every chance to secure qualification. But we must support a culture where players can own mistakes without fear of being torn apart online. Growth comes from learning, not from condemnation.
If we want to see our national team succeed, then as fans, we need to be part of that success story through encouragement, patience, and unwavering support. Because the next time a chance comes, it could be Ndidi, or any other player, who takes it… and redeems the moment.
Did You Know?
- Wilfred Ndidi holds a degree in Business and Management from De Montfort University in Leicester.
- He started his professional career at Genk in Belgium before joining Leicester City in 2017.
- Ndidi is one of the top tacklers in the Premier League, often ranking in the top five for tackles per game.
- Nigeria has qualified for the FIFA World Cup six times since its debut in 1994.
- The Super Eagles’ highest-ever FIFA ranking was 5th in April 1994.
