By Kunle Solaja
Nigeria vice-captain Wilfred Ndidi will miss Sunday’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualification play-off final against DR Congo after receiving a yellow card in the Super Eagles’ 4–1 victory over Gabon on Thursday.
Ndidi was booked as early as the sixth minute for tripping a Gabonese opponent, earning him his second caution of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. His first booking came in the 49th minute of Nigeria’s 2–0 away win over Rwanda in Kigali eight months ago.
The former Leicester City midfielder becomes the second Super Eagles player sidelined due to accumulated yellow cards in the qualifying series. Semi Ajayi, who previously served a one-match suspension, is now eligible to return for the decisive fixture.
In a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), head coach Eric Sékou Chelle expressed regret over Ndidi’s absence but affirmed confidence in the squad’s depth.
“Ndidi is an important player for us. His experience, ability and leadership on the pitch are important for this team. But we will manage the situation. We have a large squad of players and we will make changes,” Chelle said, adding that the midfielder will remain with the team to offer mental and emotional support.
Chelle is expected to choose between Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka to fill the midfield role. Onyeka impressed with a strong performance during extra time in Thursday’s match, boosting his chances of starting on Sunday.
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