Nigeria’s Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle says the team will adapt despite the absence of vice-captain Wilfred Ndidi in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup Africa play-off final against DR Congo.
The Besiktas midfielder picked up a early yellow card in Thursday’s 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon in Rabat. It was his second caution in the qualifying/playoff series, triggering an automatic suspension for the decisive clash.
Ndidi captained the side in the semi-final while William Troost-Ekong started on the bench. The former Leicester City midfielder produced a disciplined midfield performance and provided the assist for Chidera Ejuke’s goal. His absence leaves coach Eric Chelle without one of Nigeria’s most influential figures on and off the pitch.
“Ndidi is an important player for us,” Chelle told NFF Media. “His experience, ability and leadership on the pitch are important for this team.
Wilfred Ndidi. Photo Credit: NFF/COMMS
But we will manage the situation. We have a large squad of players and will make changes. Ndidi is still here with us and will support the team mentally and with his presence.”
Chelle is expected to turn to either Raphael Onyedika or Frank Onyeka, with the latter impressing in extra time against Gabon. Nigeria will also welcome back Semi Ajayi, who is now eligible to return to central defence after serving a suspension.
The semi-finals offered contrasting paths. Nigeria surged late against Gabon, tearing away in extra time after a tightly contested 90 minutes. Victor Osimhen scored twice to reach 31 goals in 45 appearances, edging closer to Rashidi Yekini’s record of 37 international goals.
READ MORE:dtigress-surrender-half-time-lead-in-narrow-turkey-defeat
The Super Eagles may line up with a new captain on Sunday, with reports suggesting Osimhen is under consideration. Substantive captain William Troost-Ekong is not guaranteed to start, while Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon are also options for leadership.
Victor Osimhen celebrating with his Super Eagles teammates. Photo Credit: Poojamedia
DR Congo, meanwhile, edged Cameroon 1–0 in added time thanks to centurion captain Chancel Mbemba, who scored in the dying moments of the match. Mbemba, who reached his 100th international cap in that semi-final, remains the Leopards’ key figure in defence and leadership.
Other threats include Brian Cipenga, Noah Sadiki, Silas Katompa, Cédric Bakambu, Meshack Elia, Samuel Essende, and Fiston Mayele.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Sunday’s final in Rabat will determine Africa’s single representative for next March’s Intercontinental Play-Off Finals, from which two sides will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
