The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is eligible to play in Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The clarification dispels concerns among Nigerian fans following reports suggesting that Ndidi would miss the crucial fixture due to the accumulation of yellow cards.

A statement posted on the Super Eagles’ official X handle on Saturday noted that CAF had confirmed that cautions received during the African World Cup qualifiers do not carry over into the playoffs. Only previously issued suspensions remain valid.

“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.

Ndidi was one of Nigeria’s standout performers in Thursday’s 4–1 semi-final win over Gabon, delivering a commanding display in midfield. Wearing the captain’s armband, he capped a strong performance with an assist for Chidera Ejuke, who scored Nigeria’s second goal.

The Super Eagles will face DR Congo on Sunday at 8 p.m. Nigerian time in a decisive showdown, with the winner advancing to the intercontinental playoff for the final World Cup slot available to Africa.