Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has denied making public comments about Nigeria’s ongoing dispute with DR Congo over a potential spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental play-off.
Earlier reports had suggested the midfielder contacted FIFA seeking transparency regarding a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The petition challenged the eligibility of certain DR Congo players during the African qualification play-offs. However, Ndidi has firmly distanced himself from those statements.
The clarification comes from Ayo Olu Ibadapo, a host on the YouTube program AYSuga Channel. Ibadapo stated that Ndidi expressed surprise when presented with the alleged statement, denying categorically that he had spoken on the matter.
“He expressed surprise that I brought it to his attention, as he did not make any such statements. He has not mentioned or spoken to anyone about it,” Ibadapo reported.
The dispute itself centers on Nigeria’s challenge to the eligibility of players fielded by DR Congo during their two-legged African play-off tie. Nigeria lost that tie 2-1 on aggregate. Should FIFA uphold the NFF’s petition, it could impact DR Congo’s qualification and potentially open a pathway for Nigeria to advance to the intercontinental play-off stage.
The case has been formally submitted to FIFA for review. The global governing body has not yet announced a timeline or a final decision on the eligibility challenge.
This clarification emerges amid heightened speculation about Nigeria’s World Cup prospects. The winner of the CAF final qualification round secures direct passage to the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The runner-up enters the intercontinental play-off against a team from another confederation. The outcome of the FIFA eligibility case remains a point of significant interest for both Nigerian and Congolese football fans as the resolution could directly influence which team represents Africa in the final intercontinental play-off bracket.
