Nigeria to face DR Congo without Wilfried Ndidi in playoff final
Nigeria will be without Wilfried Ndidi for Sunday’s African playoff final against DR Congo, following an accumulation of yellow cards during their 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon on November 13, 2025.
The Leicester City midfielder, who has been a key figure for the Super Eagles, will now watch the decisive match from the stands.
Ndidi’s suspension is a significant setback for Nigeria head coach Éric Sékou Chelle, who relied on the midfielder’s composure and defensive intelligence throughout the campaign.
During the semi-final against Gabon, Ndidi was instrumental in shielding the backline and distributing the ball effectively, forming a solid partnership with fellow defender Calvin Bassey.
Notably, Ndidi also provided the assist for Chidera Ejuke’s extra-time goal in the 97th minute, a strike that ultimately put Nigeria back in control and set the stage for their 4-1 triumph.
With Ndidi sidelined due to a one-match suspension, Chelle is expected to turn to Raphaël Onyedika as his replacement in midfield.
Onyedika, known for his ball-winning abilities and tactical discipline, will be tasked with maintaining the defensive stability and control that Ndidi brought to the team.
The absence of Ndidi presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Nigeria.
While the Super Eagles will miss their captain’s leadership and experience, Onyedika’s inclusion offers a chance to inject energy and fresh legs into the midfield.
Chelle will need to adjust his tactical setup to ensure Nigeria’s defensive structure remains solid against a DR Congo side that proved resilient in their semi-final win over Cameroon.
Ndidi’s suspension highlights the fine margins in World Cup qualifying, where disciplinary issues can have a direct impact on team selection in crucial matches.
The Nigerian squad now faces the task of balancing attacking ambition with defensive caution as they aim to secure a place in the intercontinental playoff.
The Super Eagles’ matchup against DR Congo promises to be a tense and highly competitive encounter.
Nigeria will need to find alternative solutions in midfield to compensate for Ndidi’s absence while relying on the attacking prowess of Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams, and Chidera Ejuke to break down the Congolese defense.
Sunday’s playoff final in Rabat is set to be a defining moment in Nigeria’s World Cup journey, with Ndidi watching from the sidelines but his presence felt in the team’s strategic planning and motivation.
