Former Super Eagles striker Victor Ikpeba has faulted Wilfred Ndidi for his error leading up to DR Congo's equalizer against Nigeria in the World Cup playoff final.

Ndidi's indecisiveness resulted in the Leopards’ equalizer in the first half after Frank Onyeka had given Nigeria an early lead in the third minute.

The poor control from the veteran midfielder in that split second proved costly as the game ended in a 1-1 stalemate after extra time, with DR Congo edging Nigeria 4-3 on penalties to secure a ticket to the intercontinental playoffs in March 2026.

The likes of Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze all missed their spot kicks as Nigeria's World Cup dream ended in disappointing fashion.

“Wilfred Ndidi was actually the one that laid it on the platter for Mechak Elia. And that’s the thing we are talking about. That’s why some people criticize him most of the time, for probably being slow on decision-making,” Ikpeba said in his post-match analysis.

“Maybe anything could have happened. So, if someone like Benjamin Freddy was there, maybe he would have controlled that ball very well for himself and maybe made the clearance and all of that. These things happen in football.”

WDN