Inter-Confederation Playoffs: Osimhen, Bassey, Six Others Face Suspension Risks

Inter-Confederation Playoffs: Osimhen, Bassey, Six Others Face Suspension Risks

Ibrahim Lateef

Victor Osimhen, Calvin Bassey, and six other key players in the Super Eagles are in jeopardy of suspension if Nigeria secures a spot in the inter-confederation play-off in March 2026, reports BSNSports.com.ng.

Nigeria decisively advanced to face DR Congo after a commanding 4-1 victory over Gabon in Thursday's second round of the semi-final play-off. It’s crucial to note that yellow cards are not erased until just before the World Cup.

Any player accumulating two yellow cards across different qualifying matches will automatically face a suspension for the following match.

Currently, Frank Onyeka, back-up goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, and Osimhen, who received a yellow card for removing his shirt during his first goal celebration, are all on one yellow.

Additionally, Stanley Nwabali, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Tolu Arokodare, and Bruno Onyemaechi are already carrying yellow cards from the first round group phase.

Should any of the eight players receive a booking in Sunday’s final, they will miss the opening match of the inter-confederation playoffs in March 2026, provided Nigeria qualifies.