Ndidi played a vital role in Nigeria’s thrashing of Gabon in the semi-final of the playoff on Thursday evening.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigeria midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, is suspended for the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday.
Eric Chelle’s men on Thursday evening thrashed Gabon 4-1 in the semi-final of the playoff, with Victor Osimhen scoring twice in extra time.
In the other semi-final, DR Congo pulled off a surprise result, as they beat Cameroon 1-0.
Captain Chancel Mbemba headed in a late winner in stoppage time to give his country a chance of qualifying for next year’s tournament.
With the outcome of the two games, Nigeria will now face the DR Congo in the final of the playoff.
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However, Ndidi will sit out the crucial encounter, which will determine the country that represents Africa at the intercontinental playoffs in March 2026.
This is because the Besiktas player picked up an early yellow card in the encounter against Gabon.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, will have defender Semi Ajayi available for the fixture.
Ajayi was suspended for the Gabon game after accumulating yellow cards.
Nigeria’s game against DR Congo will be played at the newly built Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
