Nigeria international, Chidozie Awaziem, has expressed concern over the unavailability of midfielder Wilfred Ndidi ahead of the Super Eagles’ decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final against DR Congo on Sunday.
Ndidi will play no part in the crucial encounter after receiving a suspension due to accumulated yellow cards — a development Awaziem described as a significant setback for the squad. The defender, however, stressed that the Super Eagles possess enough quality and mental strength to cope without the influential Leicester City midfielder.
Speaking to journalists in Rabat following Nigeria’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Gabon in the semi-final, Awaziem said the team must remain confident and focused despite the setback.
“We’re definitely going to miss him [Ndidi],” he said.
The centre-back added that the team believes in whoever will step in to fill the gap, noting that the technical crew has full confidence in the depth of the squad.
“But we have other players as well who can play the same position and who are good as well.
“We trust everyone. The coach trusts everyone, everyone’s ability, and I just hope that whoever comes in the position of Wilfred is going to try to do better than him or try to give it all so that the team can come out with a victory,” he continued.
Nigeria will battle DR Congo on Sunday in Rabat, Morocco, with a spot in the inter-confederation playoffs scheduled for March 2026 at stake. The winner of the matchup will move one step closer to sealing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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