Despite defeating Gabon to reach the World Cup play-off final against DR Congo, the Nigerian Super Eagles are hit by a major suspension crisis, losing key midfielder Wilfred Ndidi while eight other crucial players, including star striker Victor Osimhen, are now just one yellow card away from missing a potential inter-confederation play-off match.
The Nigerian Super Eagles advanced to the World Cup play-off final against DR Congo after a tough extra-time victory over Gabon, but the team’s immediate focus has shifted to managing a major suspension issue. Key midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is automatically ruled out of the final after accumulating his second yellow card during the semi-final match. Furthermore, Nigeria faces a critical disciplinary challenge as eight players—including vital goalscorer Victor Osimhen, who was cautioned for a shirt-removal celebration, and Ndidi’s likely replacement, Frank Onyeka—are currently sitting on one yellow card. Because yellow cards are not reset until the main World Cup tournament, any of these players booked during Sunday’s final would be suspended for the first match of the subsequent inter-confederation play-off, creating a tightrope walk for the team as they fight for qualification.
Stanley Nwabali, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Tolu Arokodare and Bruno Onyemaechi are all carrying yellow cards from the first round group phase.
If any of the eight players mentioned are booked in Sunday’s final, they would then miss the first match of the inter-confederation play-off in March 2026 if Nigeria get there.