Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has acknowledged the setback of losing Wilfred Ndidi to suspension ahead of Sunday’s FIFA World Cup Africa playoff final against DR Congo, stressing that Nigeria must adapt quickly to keep their qualification campaign on track.
Ndidi, who captained the team in Thursday’s 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon, received an early yellow card, his second caution of the qualifying series, automatically ruling him out of the decisive fixture in Rabat.
The midfielder delivered a fine performance in the encounter, including the assist for Chidera Ejuke’s crucial goal.
Chelle: “We will manage the situation”
Speaking to NFF Media, Chelle described Ndidi’s absence as a significant loss but insisted the squad has the depth to cope.
“Ndidi is an important player for us,” Chelle said. “His experience, ability and leadership on the pitch are important for this team. But we will manage the situation.
“We have a large squad of players and we will make changes. Ndidi is still here with us and will support the team mentally and with his presence.”
Chelle is expected to turn to either Raphael Onyedika or Frank Onyeka in midfield, with Onyeka having impressed during extra time against Gabon.
Semi Ajayi is also expected to return to central defence after serving his suspension.
High-stakes final in Rabat
Sunday’s clash offers the winner Africa’s only slot in next March’s Intercontinental Playoff Finals, where two of six teams will eventually qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
DR Congo, last seen at the tournament in 1974, are seeking to halt Nigeria’s push for a seventh World Cup appearance since 1994.
Nigeria reached the final with a late surge against Gabon, powered by Victor Osimhen’s extra-time brace.
The Galatasaray forward now has 31 goals in 45 caps and is closing in on Rashidi Yekini’s national record of 37.
Meanwhile, DR Congo edged Cameroon 1-0 in their semi-final, with captain Chancel Mbemba delivering a dramatic added-time winner from a Brian Cipenga corner.
The Leopards pose threats across the pitch, including Cipenga, Noah Sadiki, Silas Katompa and forwards Cédric Bakambu, Meshack Elia, Samuel Essende and Fiston Mayele.
Playoff path ahead
Bolivia and New Caledonia have already secured places in the March intercontinental playoffs, with Iraq, Jamaica and Panama also in contention.
Based on FIFA rankings, Nigeria and Panama are poised to be seeded, meaning each would require just one victory to book a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
