The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup continental playoffs are scheduled to take place next month, with the Super Eagles of Nigeria set to be a prominent participant. Nigeria secured their place in these crucial playoffs by finishing second in Group C and qualifying as one of the best second-placed teams. The Super Eagles will compete in a four-team tournament hosted in Morocco, commencing with a match against Gabon. The winner of that tie will then advance to face the victor of the game between DR Congo and Cameroon.

A significant development ahead of these playoffs is CAF's reported decision to implement Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. This marks a notable departure from the main qualifiers, where VAR was not utilized in any game. The introduction of VAR is anticipated to bring an increased level of scrutiny to every on-field situation, potentially serving as a game-changer for all participating teams, including Nigeria.

The impact of VAR on the Super Eagles could be substantial and multifaceted. For example, past controversial incidents, such as Calvin Bassey's goal for Nigeria against South Africa in the return leg, which hypothetically could have been canceled for handball under VAR review, illustrate how the technology might influence match outcomes. Conversely, VAR could also work to Nigeria's advantage by ensuring that severe tackles, like the one that led to Victor Osimhen's injury against Rwanda in August—a situation many believed warranted a red card but was uncalled—are appropriately addressed. The Super Eagles will undoubtedly be hoping that the introduction of VAR technology proves favorable to them during these critical matches in Morocco.