CAF Clears Wilfred Ndidi for Nigeria’s World Cup Play-Off Final
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is eligible to play in Sunday’s crucial World Cup play-off final against DR Congo, bringing an end to days of confusion over his status.
The clarification was shared on the Super Eagles’ official X (Twitter) page on Saturday. The statement explained that yellow cards collected during the World Cup qualifiers do not carry over into the play-offs. Only players with confirmed suspensions are ruled out.
This means Ndidi is free to feature in the decisive match in Rabat.
The midfielder received a yellow card in the sixth minute of Nigeria’s semi-final victory over Gabon, adding to an earlier booking he picked up against Rwanda in Kigali. The caution had sparked worry among fans, many of whom believed he would be suspended for the final.
With CAF’s confirmation, those fears have now been eased. Head coach Eric Chelle will be pleased to have one of his key midfielders available, while Nigerian supporters will welcome the boost ahead of the high-stakes encounter.
Ndidi is expected to play an important role as Nigeria fight for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
