Eagles land in Morocco as Ndidi warns Nigeria rivals ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup Playoffs
Captain William Ekong and fellow defender Benjamin Fredericks were expected at the Super Eagles’ hotel in Rabat, Morocco, on Sunday night, to join the seven-man early crew of defender Calvin Bassey, midfielders Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi, and forwards Simon Moses, Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun, and Samuel Chukwueze.
Most of the remaining 15 players are expected on Monday, as the three-time African champions get in the mood for a potentially explosive Play-off semi-final clash with the Panthers of Gabon at the Complexe Sportif Prince Heritier Moulay Al Hassan on Thursday evening, starting 5 pm Morocco time (same as in Nigeria).
Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo clash in the other semi-final, with the two finalists to battle it out at the Complexe Sportif Prince Heritier Moulay Al Hassan on Sunday evening, for Africa’s lone ticket to the Intercontinental Playoffs in Mexico next year.
Meanwhile, Nigeria midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, has fired a note of warning to their immediate opponents, Gabon and other teams at the playoff.
“The strength of the team lies in our pace and power in transition, creativity in wide areas, and a solid spine,” Ndidi said.
“We also have depth players who can come in and change the game. When we’re connected and intense, we’re dangerous. With unity and discipline, we believe we can do it.
“Expect commitment, organisation, and intensity. We want to be difficult to play against, control key moments, and show courage when it matters most. The promise we can make is effort and togetherness.”
Ndid also stressed that no opponent will be underrated.
“We respect every opponent. Playoffs come down to fine margins, not reputation. Our focus is on preparation—sharp training, good recovery, and executing the game plan. If we do that, our quality will shine through.
“As a team, we want to qualify while staying respectful of the task. We’ll prepare well, give everything, and maintain our humility.”
The 28-year-old also reflected on the team’s journey to the playoffs after making a poor start in the qualifying series.
“We’ve learned to respect the details—game management, set pieces, recovery, and discipline without the ball. Trusting the process, sticking to simple, clear roles, and keeping the team spirit high are key.
“We must manage pressure, handle away environments, and stay focused for the full 90 minutes. Fatigue is a factor with travel and tight schedules, so recovery and squad rotation are crucial.”
The winner of the African playoffs will advance to the inter-continental playoffs, which will be played next year in Mexico, where two qualification spots will be up for grabs.
