Wilfred Ndidi explains his ‘bravo’ celebration after scoring for Beşiktaş in their 2-2 Europa League draw against Crystal Palace

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Ndidi scored his first goal of the season with a composed left-footed finish after receiving a pass from Salih Özcan, sending the ball beyond Crystal Palace goalkeeper Walter Benítez.

The midfielder caught the attention of supporters with his celebration, gesturing towards the number on his jersey after finding the net.

Speaking after the match, Ndidi explained that the gesture was a way of congratulating himself for the quality of his finish.

“In actuality, I was acknowledging myself, saying ‘bravo’ to myself,” he said, as quoted by Turkish outlet Ajansspor.

The former Leicester City midfielder described the result as a favourable one for Beşiktaş, despite what he considered a tentative start.

He said the Turkish side gradually found its rhythm and took advantage of its opportunities in both halves.

“I can describe it as a favourable match today,” Ndidi said.

“Our opening half was tentative, however we developed momentum and converted our opportunity. An analogous pattern emerged in the second half. In totality, it represented a favourable match.”

The Nigerian international also expressed confidence in the team’s progress, praising the club’s standing and the players’ commitment.

“Beşiktaş are a great club. We are showing ourselves against teams coming from big leagues. We are on the right track; everyone is working hard. Everyone is fighting. Everything is going great,” he added.

Ndidi played the full 90 minutes as Beşiktaş shared the points with the English Premier League side.

Also read: Messi Names Two Most Special Goals of His Career

The goal marked a personal milestone for the midfielder, who will hope to build on the performance as Beşiktaş continue their European campaign.