World Cup Playoffs: We Are Ready, No Opponent Will Be Underrated – Ndidi

World Cup Playoffs: We Are Ready, No Opponent Will Be Underrated – Ndidi

Sampson Adedeji

Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has declared that Nigeria will approach every opponent with respect and full focus ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs in Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Four nations, including Nigeria, are set to battle for one available slot in the African playoffs as the road to the World Cup intensifies. Ndidi, who has been in fine form for Turkish giants Besiktas, emphasized that the team will not take any opponent lightly as they aim to secure qualification.

“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,” Ndidi said.

He added that maintaining discipline, focus, and unity within the team would be essential to achieving their objective.

 “As a team, we want to qualify while staying respectful of the task. We’ll prepare well, give everything, and maintain our humility. 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,” he continued.

The former Leicester City star also highlighted the importance of handling pressure and managing fatigue during the demanding playoff schedule.

 “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,” he concluded.

The winner of the African playoffs will advance to the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for next year in Mexico, where two final World Cup qualification slots will be contested.