Chelle Confident Super Eagles Will Cope Without Suspended Ndidi

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle insists Nigeria will cope without Wilfred Ndidi as the midfielder serves a one-match suspension ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final. Ndidi’s absence is a major blow for the team, but Chelle remains calm, describing the midfielder as an invaluable leader who will still play an important role off the pitch.

Nigeria earned a commanding 4–1 win over Gabon in the semi-final, but the result came with a downside. Ndidi picked up his second yellow card of the qualifiers, ruling him out of the decisive playoff showdown, a match that will determine whether the Super Eagles secure their ticket to the 2026 World Cup.

Ndidi’s absence leaves a gap, but Chelle trusts his squad depth

Ndidi had delivered one of his strongest performances of the campaign against Gabon. He controlled the midfield, constantly broke up attacks, and set up Chidera Ejuke’s decisive extra-time goal. His leadership has been just as important as his defensive work, giving Nigeria stability in a tightly contested qualifying series.

Even so, Chelle believes the team has enough quality to adjust.

“Ndidi is an important player for us. His experience, ability, and leadership on the pitch are vital,” Chelle said in a statement released by the NFF. “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.”

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That assurance will come as relief to fans, especially as Nigeria prepares to face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final. While Ndidi will not play, he remains with the squad and has already taken on a supporting, advisory role in camp.

Super Eagles’ attack firing at the right time

Nigeria’s attack showed confidence and variety in the semi-final, offering hope as the team heads into the final without its midfield general. Akor Adams opened the scoring after pouncing on a defensive error, Ejuke added the winner in extra time, and Victor Osimhen sealed the result with two well-taken goals.

That attacking form gives Chelle multiple options as he prepares his strategy for the final, even though the midfield will need restructuring in Ndidi’s absence. Whether Nigeria opts for a more aggressive approach or relies on ball retention, the coach believes the squad’s balance will help them adapt.

With strong momentum, squad depth, and Ndidi offering leadership from the sidelines, the Super Eagles remain determined to finish the job and keep their World Cup dreams alive.