Nigeria vs DR Congo: Super Eagles get another lucky break as CAF clears key player to play

Nigeria’s World Cup hopes received a massive boost on Saturday after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) officially cleared Wilfred Ndidi to play in Sunday’s playoff showdown against DR Congo.

The Super Eagles, who had initially braced for the midfielder’s absence due to accumulated yellow cards, can now count on one of their most influential figures for the decisive clash.

Days of confusion and anxiety among Super Eagles fans came to an end when the team’s official X account released a statement confirming that Wilfred Ndidi remains eligible for the crucial playoff final.

CAF clarified that cautions accumulated during the World Cup qualifying group stage do not carry over into the playoff round, only existing suspensions stand.

This ruling overturned earlier reports that Ndidi would miss the game after picking up his second yellow card during Nigeria’s 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon.

The news comes as a relief to both the coaching staff and supporters, who had feared going into the DR Congo clash without their midfield anchor.

Ndidi has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers throughout the qualifying campaign, dictating play with his trademark composure, winning duels, and initiating attacks. His availability dramatically strengthens the Super Eagles’ balance heading into Sunday’s must-win encounter.

Before the clarification arrived, Nigeria looked set to face DR Congo without their captain and midfield heartbeat, a scenario that created genuine concern given Ndidi’s pivotal role.

The Besiktas star was instrumental in the semifinal victory over Gabon, breaking up dangerous attacks, controlling the tempo, and even providing a brilliant assist for Chidera Ejuke’s go-ahead goal in extra time.

The expectation of losing him felt like a serious blow, especially with the stakes sky-high and the opposition determined to snatch a World Cup ticket.

But CAF’s final confirmation has restored confidence in the camp. With Ndidi available, Nigeria head into the match with improved structure and the presence of a player who thrives in high-pressure environments.