Wilfred Ndidi eligibility confirmed as CAF clears him for the DR Congo playoff, giving the Super Eagles a decisive boost after earlier uncertainty.
Wilfred Ndidi eligibility has been officially confirmed by the Super Eagles, bringing a welcome and powerful sense of clarity to a situation that had unsettled fans for nearly two days.
Also read: Super Eagles crush Gabon 4-1 to reach playoff final
The confirmation followed a statement from CAF that clarified the rules governing accumulated cautions during the World Cup qualification series.
CAF explained that yellow cards received in the qualifiers do not extend into the playoff phase and that only confirmed suspensions are enforceable.
The Super Eagles shared the update on their official X account on Saturday, describing it as a decisive clarification that restores the midfielder’s place in Sunday’s 2026 World Cup playoff final against DR Congo.
The announcement overturned an earlier position from the NFF, which had stated through its director of communication, Dr Ademola Olajire, that Ndidi would miss the match after picking up a second booking in Thursday’s dramatic 4–1 extra time victory over Gabon.
That position had been reinforced by head coach Eric Chelle, who acknowledged Ndidi’s crucial experience, ability and leadership but insisted the team had the depth to cope.
Chelle had already begun weighing up midfield replacements, with Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka considered the leading options.
Onyeka strengthened the midfield impressively in extra time against Gabon, while centre back Semi Ajayi had completed his suspension and was available for selection.
The new ruling restores Ndidi’s influence at a vital moment. The midfielder celebrated his 70th cap on Thursday and delivered an assist in a commanding display that reaffirmed his stature in the squad.
His reinstatement offers a significant psychological lift as Nigeria prepare to face a confident DR Congo side that eliminated Cameroon with a late winner.
Also read: Nigeria vs Gabon: Super Eagles eye World Cup spot
The Super Eagles will now approach the playoff with renewed assurance, knowing that one of their most dependable figures remains firmly in the heart of their plans.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
