Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi produced an emotional and historic moment after scoring his first-ever goal for the Nigerian national team during Nigeria’s 3–2 victory over Tunisia.
Ndidi found the net in the 50th minute, making it 2–0 for Nigeria, and immediately celebrated by recreating Nwankwo Kanu’s iconic goal celebration from the Atlanta 1996 Olympics semifinal against Brazil. The moment instantly sparked nostalgia among Nigerian football fans.
The tribute carried even deeper meaning as Ndidi wears the number 4 jersey, a shirt number famously worn by Kanu Nwankwo during that legendary Olympic campaign. Coincidentally, Ndidi scored his maiden international goal in his 73rd appearance for the Super Eagles, making the moment even more special.
Watch video for both celebrations below,
Softfootball gathered that Kanu indeed wore the number 4 jersey during the 1996 Olympic Games, where Nigeria famously defeated Brazil 4–3 in the semifinals, one of the greatest matches in African football history.
Goals from Nigeria vs Brazil – Atlanta 1996 Olympic Semifinal:
- 20’ Roberto Carlos (Own Goal)
- 78’ Victor Ikpeba – Assist: Daniel Amokachi (right foot)
- 90’ Nwankwo Kanu – Assist: Teslim Babatunde Fatusi (right foot)
- 94’ Nwankwo Kanu – Assist: Teslim Babatunde Fatusi (left foot)
That historic win paved the way for Nigeria’s Olympic gold medal triumph, cementing Kanu’s legacy as one of Africa’s greatest footballers.
By recreating the celebration, Ndidi not only honored a Nigerian football legend but also symbolized leadership, continuity, and national pride, earning him the tag “Captain Fantastic” from fans.
The moment has since gone viral, serving as a powerful reminder of Nigeria’s rich football heritage and the inspiration it continues to give the current generation of Super Eagles.
