The Confederation of African Football has confirmed that Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is free to play against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sunday’s African playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, easing fears that he would miss the game through suspension.
In a post on the Super Eagles’ official X handle on Saturday, November 15, the team relayed CAF’s clarification on the midfielder’s status. The statement read:
“CAF has confirmed that Wilfred Ndidi is eligible to feature for the Super Eagles in Sunday’s playoff clash against DR Congo. Cautions accumulated during the World Cup qualifiers do not carry over into the playoffs; only confirmed suspensions apply.”
Ndidi, who wore the captain’s armband, was one of Nigeria’s standout performers in Thursday’s 4–1 semi final victory over Gabon, putting in a dominant midfield display and providing the assist for Chidera Ejuke’s second goal.
With the Leicester City star now cleared to play, Nigeria will face DR Congo on Sunday at 8 p.m. Nigerian time in a decisive showdown. The winner will claim Africa’s ticket to the intercontinental playoff for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
