Éric Sékou Chelle says Nigeria will push for victory on Sunday despite the absence of Wilfred Ndidi, as the Super Eagles and DR Congo clash for Africa’s lone ticket to the six-team Intercontinental Playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match, scheduled for the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay El Hassan, offers both sides a final chance to remain in contention for a place at next year’s tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
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The Leopards, who last featured at the World Cup in 1974, will aim to halt Nigeria’s push toward a seventh appearance since their maiden outing in 1994. DR Congo reached the final after a dramatic late goal from Chancel Mbemba secured victory in Thursday’s semi-final, while Nigeria powered past Gabon 4-1 after extra time, showing superior dominance when it mattered most.
Historically, DR Congo have two Africa Cup of Nations titles (1968 and 1974) but endured a disappointing World Cup debut in Germany 1974, losing all three group matches, including a 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia. Nigeria, in contrast, have reached the Round of 16 in three of their six appearances and famously topped a group containing Argentina in their debut 31 years ago.
The Congolese bench is led by French tactician Sébastien Desabre, 49, whose familiarity with North African conditions comes from spells coaching clubs in Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt.
He will face Nigeria’s Éric Sékou Chelle, unbeaten in five competitive matches since taking charge.
Chelle’s Super Eagles have recorded four wins and a draw, scoring 14 goals and conceding four, earning praise from fans who believe qualification would have been sealed earlier had he overseen the entire campaign.
However, Chelle must navigate Sunday’s final without deputy captain Wilfred Ndidi.
The Leicester City midfielder received his second yellow card of the qualifiers in the win over Gabon and is suspended. Despite the setback, Chelle remains optimistic.
“Ndidi is an important player for us. His experience, ability and leadership are vital, but we will manage the situation. We have a large squad, and we will make changes. Ndidi is still here with us and will support the team mentally and with his presence,” the coach said.
Raphael Onyedika or Frank Onyeka—who made a strong impact in extra time on Thursday—are the leading candidates to replace Ndidi. Chelle also welcomes the return of defender Semi Ajayi, now available after serving a suspension.
Upfront, Victor Osimhen continues to spearhead Nigeria’s attack. Fresh from scoring twice against Gabon, the Napoli striker is chasing Rashidi Yekini’s long-standing record of 37 international goals. Osimhen currently sits on 31 goals and 12 assists in 45 matches.
He is supported by a deep pool of attacking talent including Ademola Lookman, Simon Moses, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, Chidera Ejuke and Tolu Arokodare.
Chelle’s men, however, must be wary of DR Congo’s threats.
Captain Chancel Mbemba remains their biggest weapon, while Brian Cipenga, Noah Sadiki, Silas Katompa, Cédric Bakambu, Meshack Elia, Samuel Essende and Fiston Mayele add further danger across the pitch.
Bolivia and New Caledonia have already secured places in the Intercontinental Playoffs in March, with Iraq, Jamaica and Panama also in contention. Among all six potential teams, Nigeria and Panama are the highest ranked and will be seeded to play only the final round, while the other four contest the semi-finals.
Sunday’s showdown promises intensity, history and high stakes—as Nigeria aim to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
