Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle says Nigeria will adapt comfortably to the absence of midfielder Wilfred Ndidi when they face the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoffs.
Nigeria will battle the Leopards on Sunday at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, with a ticket to the World Cup on the line.
Ndidi is ruled out after picking up his second yellow card of the playoffs during Thursday’s emphatic win over Gabon. His earlier booking came in the away fixture against Rwanda’s Amavubi in Kigali back in March, triggering an automatic one-game suspension.
Despite the setback, Chelle remains confident in his squad depth ahead of the game against DR Congo.
“Ndidi is an important player for us. His experience, ability and leadership on the pitch are important for this team,” Chelle told thenff.com.
“But we will manage the situation. We have a large squad of players, and we will make changes.
“Ndidi is still here with us and will support the team mentally and with his presence.”
The Super Eagles have shown improved cohesion and intensity throughout the playoffs, and Chelle believes that continuity — not panic — will drive their performance on Sunday.
“Everyone understands their role. Whoever replaces him will be ready,” he assured.
Nigeria will be aiming to maintain momentum as it pushes for a return to the FIFA World Cup after missing the 2022 edition in Qatar.
