CAF to Deploy VAR in Crucial World Cup Playoff as Nigeria Finalises Squad
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 3 — 11
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be used during the upcoming African playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a move widely seen as a step towards greater fairness in the continent’s most decisive qualification stage.
The introduction of VAR will mark a significant milestone for African football, ensuring critical decisions are subjected to video review as nations battle for a single ticket to the intercontinental playoffs.
For Nigeria, who face Gabon in the semifinal on November 13, the decision comes as Coach Éric Chelle and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) put finishing touches to the Super Eagles’ squad and logistics. The team is expected to converge in Morocco on November 9, ahead of what promises to be a tightly contested fixture.
CAF’s decision follows growing calls from players, coaches, and fans for consistent officiating in continental competitions. Officials say VAR technicians and referees have already been briefed and trained specifically for the playoff tournament.
The winner of Nigeria’s semifinal tie will face either Cameroon or DR Congo on November 16 for a place in the March 2026 intercontinental playoff, a final gateway to the World Cup co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
