The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is eligible to play in Sunday’s 2026 World Cup playoff against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The clarification ends uncertainty among Nigerian supporters after reports suggested the midfielder might miss the decisive fixture due to accumulated yellow cards.
According to an update shared on the Super Eagles’ official X page on Saturday, CAF stated that cautions picked up during the World Cup qualifying rounds do not carry over into the playoff stage. Only players with confirmed suspensions are barred from participating.
“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,” the statement said.
Ndidi was one of Nigeria’s standout performers in Thursday’s 4–1 semifinal victory over Gabon. Captaining the team, he delivered a dominant midfield display and assisted Chidera Ejuke for Nigeria’s second goal.
The Super Eagles face DR Congo on Sunday at 8 p.m. Nigerian time in what will be a decisive encounter. The winner will secure Africa’s slot in the intercontinental playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
