The Confederation of African Football has confirmed that Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is free to play in Sunday’s playoff match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This clears the worries of many Nigerian fans who feared he would miss the game because of yellow cards he picked up during the World Cup qualifiers.
A statement on the Super Eagles’ X handle on Saturday said CAF explained that yellow cards from the qualifiers do not carry over into the playoffs. Only confirmed suspensions will stop a player from featuring.
“CAF has confirmed that Wilfred Ndidi is eligible to feature for the Super Eagles in Sunday’s playoff clash against DR Congo.
“Cautions accumulated during the World Cup qualifiers do not carry over into the playoffs; only confirmed suspensions apply,” the statement read.
CAF said Ndidi’s booking in Thursday’s 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon does not affect his eligibility.
Ndidi had a strong performance in that match. He wore the captain’s armband, controlled the midfield, and set up Chidera Ejuke for Nigeria’s second goal.
Nigeria will face DR Congo on Sunday at 8 p.m. The winner will move on to the intercontinental playoff for a place in the 2026 World Cup.
