World Cup playoff: Osimhen may lead Super Eagles against DR Congo

Nigeria may line up with a new captain on Sunday when the Super Eagles take on DR Congo in the decisive FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off in Rabat, with reports from the UK suggesting that Victor Osimhen is under consideration to wear the armband.

Stand-in skipper Wilfred Ndidi is suspended for the clash after picking up an early yellow card in Thursday’s 4–1 victory over Gabon, while substantive captain William Troost-Ekong is not guaranteed to start.

British newspaper The Standard reports that the uncertainty surrounding Troost-Ekong’s return — following Benjamin Fredrick’s commanding performance in central defence — has opened the door for Osimhen to step forward as team leader.

Coach Eric Chelle is now weighing his options, with Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, and Moses Simon all mentioned as possible choices to lead Nigeria out for the crucial fixture.

Troost-Ekong himself endorsed Osimhen’s leadership qualities during an appearance on Victor Mondo’s YouTube channel, describing the former Napoli striker as one of the emerging leaders in the squad. “We have players who are really coming of age and showing what they can do,” the former Super Eagles captain said.

Osimhen has long been viewed as a driving force within the team — vocal, energetic, and a natural motivator whose presence often lifts the squad. And with Nigeria’s World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, his elevation to captain could further inspire the team in Rabat.

Beyond the captaincy puzzle, Chelle must also address a major gap in midfield created by Ndidi’s suspension. The former Leicester City star has been central to Nigeria’s structure throughout the qualifying series, and his absence will require significant tactical adjustments.

The Super Eagles face DR Congo on Sunday night with a ticket to the FIFA Inter-Continental Play-Off on the line — and possibly with Victor Osimhen leading them into battle.