Ndidi to address Osimhen's frustration After AFCON substitution incident

Nigeria captain Wilfred Ndidi has confirmed he will speak with star striker Victor Osimhen after the forward's visibly angry reaction to being substituted in the team's 2-1 Africa Cup of Nations win over Tanzania.

Osimhen was replaced in the 86th minute, appearing frustrated as he left the pitch despite Nigeria holding a winning position. The Napoli striker had missed several chances earlier in the match.

"He's a big player; he wants to do the best for the team, so maybe [he's] a bit frustrated; it's normal," Ndidi told ESPN after the match. "I think he's kind of like putting too much pressure on himself. I am going to speak to him. He's a great guy, he wants to win."

The incident highlights the intense pressure on Osimhen as Nigeria's primary attacking threat as they pursue their first AFCON title since 2013.

The Super Eagles are preparing to face Tunisia in their next game on Saturday, December 27 at the Fez Stadium.

The three-time champions, after losing the final of the 2023 edition to Ivory Coast, are poised to make amends, with their surprise failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup another driving factor for their determination.