Chelle explains why Ndidi played all 90 minutes in Nigeria’s win over Tanzania

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle says Wilfred Ndidi remained on the pitch throughout Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania because there was no midfield replacement available on the bench.

Nigeria captain Ndidi was caught in possession in a dangerous position, allowing Tanzania to launch the counter-attack that produced their equalising goal before half-time in Uyo on Friday.

The former Leicester City midfielder responded after the break, setting up Tolu Arokodare to put the Super Eagles back in front at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

Nigeria took control during the second half and went on to secure a convincing victory, but Chelle did not replace Ndidi, who completed the full 90 minutes.

Explaining his decision after the match, Chelle said the lack of another available midfielder left him with no alternative.

“For Ndidi, there is no another midfielder on the bench,” Chelle explained. “So, he stays on the pitch.”

Ndidi will take confidence from his assist, which helped Nigeria recover from his earlier error and claim a result that strengthened their AFCON qualification hopes.

The Super Eagles captain must now focus on rest and recovery before Nigeria face Tanzania again in the return fixture on Tuesday, November 17, 2026.