Wilfred Ndidi has been cleared to feature for Nigeria in Sunday’s decisive 2026 World Cup playoff against DR Congo, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles confirmed the development on their official X account on Saturday, ending the uncertainty over Wilfred Ndidi’s eligibility and giving the team a timely midfield boost ahead of the clash in Rabat.
The Besiktas midfielder had appeared set to miss the fixture after collecting a yellow card in Thursday’s dramatic 4-1 extra-time win over Gabon.
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That caution was his second of the campaign when combined with the booking he received earlier in the qualifiers, prompting concerns that he had triggered an automatic suspension.
However, the Confederation of African Football has now clarified that bookings accumulated in the qualifying rounds do not carry into the playoffs. Only players with officially confirmed suspensions are barred from participating, meaning Ndidi is free to play. The ruling provides welcome relief for head coach Eric Chelle, who had been preparing to adjust his midfield structure for one of the biggest games of his tenure.
Wilfred Ndidi reached 70 caps for Nigeria last night, capping it off with an assist and a dominant showing in midfield. pic.twitter.com/ucUZ2ION3p
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 14, 2025
Ndidi’s availability is particularly significant given the importance of Sunday’s meeting, with a place in the inter-confederation playoff, and a direct route to the 2026 World Cup, on the line. His experience and positional discipline are expected to be central to Nigeria’s approach, especially against a DR Congo side that progressed with a tense, late victory over Cameroon.
The clarification also places Ndidi, alongside striker Victor Osimhen, on a disciplinary tightrope.
Osimhen’s celebratory shirt removal after scoring against Gabon earned him a yellow card, leaving both players one caution away from missing next year’s inter-continental knockout fixture should Nigeria advance. For now, though, Chelle will be relieved to have his midfield anchor available on a night when details will matter more than ever.
