Nigeria’s Super Eagles will have to navigate Sunday’s decisive World Cup continental playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo without influential midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended for accumulated bookings.
The Super Eagles earned their place in the final by sweeping aside Gabon 4–1 in Rabat on Thursday night.
Ndidi received a sixth-minute yellow card in that thrilling victory after a mistimed tackle on Dennis Bounaga. The caution, therefore, triggered an automatic suspension since it was his second booking of the qualifiers. His first card came earlier in the campaign during Nigeria’s clash with Rwanda in Kigali.
Despite the setback, Nigeria will feel encouraged because Ndidi delivered a strong performance against Gabon, as he not only dictated midfield play but also provided the assist for Chidera Ejuke’s well-taken second goal.
Onyeka likely to step in as Nigeria adjust midfield options
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With Ndidi unavailable, coach Eric Chelle is expected to turn to Brentford’s Frank Onyeka, who, consequently, offers energy, ball-winning ability, and tactical discipline. Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika, meanwhile, is another solid choice if the coach prefers a more progressive midfield approach.
Nigeria’s coaching crew will, therefore, weigh their options carefully as they prepare for a high-stakes encounter that will determine the nation’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However the final lineup shapes up, the Super Eagles know they must maintain Thursday’s intensity to overcome a determined DR Congo side. Congo beat Cameroon 1-0 on Thursday in the second semi-final of the playoffs, following a 91st minute Chancel Mbemba strike.
Nigeria will miss Wilfred Ndidi in the World Cup playoff final against DR Congo after the midfielder picked up another suspension.
Tags: Wilfred Ndidi, Super Eagles, DR Congo, #FIFAWCQ, 2026 World Cup playoffs, Gabon, World Cup continental playoff final.
