Nigeria’s vice-captain Wilfred Ndidi will be absent for Sunday’s vital FIFA World Cup qualification play-off final against DR Congo following a yellow card in the Super Eagles’ 4–1 win over Gabon on Thursday.
Ndidi received a caution as early as the sixth minute for tripping a Gabonese player, marking his second booking of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. His first yellow card came in the 49th minute during Nigeria’s 2–0 victory away to Rwanda in Kigali eight months ago.
The Leicester City midfielder is the second Super Eagles player to miss the crucial fixture due to accumulated bookings. Defender Semi Ajayi, who has already served a one-match suspension, is now eligible to return.
In a statement, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) head coach Eric Sékou Chelle expressed regret over Ndidi’s absence but remained confident in the squad’s depth.
“Ndidi is an important player for us. His experience, ability and leadership on the pitch are vital for this team. But we will manage the situation. We have a large squad and will make the necessary changes,” Chelle said, adding that Ndidi will stay with the team to provide mental and emotional support.
Chelle is expected to decide between Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka to fill the midfield role. Onyeka impressed with a strong performance during extra time against Gabon, increasing his chances of starting on Sunday.
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