Wilfred Ndidi vs Gabon

CAF Clears Wilfred Ndidi for Super Eagles’ World Cup Playoff Final vs DR Congo.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has ruled that Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is eligible to face the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff final at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco. Team media officer Promise Efoghe announced the decision via the Super Eagles’ X account on Saturday, resolving 48 hours of doubt.

Concerns emerged when Ndidi earned a yellow card in the sixth minute for fouling Denis Bouanga in Thursday’s 4-1 extra-time win over Gabon, his second caution after one against Rwanda on matchday five. CAF clarified: “Cautions accumulated during the World Cup qualifiers do not carry over into the playoffs; only confirmed suspensions apply.” This aligns with FIFA rules, unlike South Africa’s three-point penalty for playing ineligible Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho, though they still qualified.

Ndidi, now at Besiktas post Leicester City, shone against Gabon, assisting Chidera Ejuke’s extra-time equalizer and creating a late chance for Victor Osimhen. The 29 year old, with 70 caps and 2018 World Cup experience under Gernot Rohr, bolsters Eric Chelle’s midfield. William Troost-Ekong said: “We are happy that Wilfred can play tomorrow… It’s good to know that he is available.”

Victory on November 16 at 5pm WAT earns Africa’s slot in the March 2026 intercontinental playoffs in Mexico for a World Cup spot.