Former Manchester United striker Odion Ighalo has thrown the spotlight on one player who could cause Nigeria serious problems, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles prepare to face DR Congo in a crucial 2026 World Cup Intercontinental playoff match on today in Rabat. And an old video of Ighalo resurfaces.
In a throwback interview with Juliet Bawuah in April 2020, Ighalo singled out DR Congo right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka for his defensive prowess and work rate.
The Super Eagles will be coming off a 4–1 extra-time win against Gabon in the semifinals, while DR Congo secured their playoff spot thanks to a last-minute Chancel Mbemba goal against Cameroon.
Both teams will bring a full-strength squad to Rabat, but Ighalo’s comments suggest Nigeria will need to be particularly alert to the threat posed on DR Congo’s right flank.
With Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams leading the Nigerian attack, the battle on the wings could define who advances. And it seems Wan-Bissaka could be the man to watch.
What Ighalo Has Said About Wan-Bissaka
In the 2020 interview, Ighalo was full of admiration for Wan-Bissaka’s defensive ability. He pointed out the right-back’s tackling skills and relentless work-rate.
“That guy is one of the best right-backs,” Ighalo said. “His waist is like rubber, the way he bends and steals the ball, the way he tackles the ball away, sometimes I’ll be afraid that he’s going to get injured. One second he’s up again and he’s going again, pursuing the ball, he’s very difficult to get past. He’s a very, very good player, his work-rate is amazing.”
#InConversationWith Odion Ighalo, Manchester United & Nigeria Forward https://t.co/9RBdHE4bKb
— Juliet Bawuah (@julietbawuah) April 11, 2020
These words underline why Nigeria’s attackers will have to be at their sharpest when attempting to break through DR Congo’s defence.
What to Know About Nigeria vs DR Congo Clash
The Super Eagles and DR Congo face off on Sunday at Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, kick-off 8 PM WAT.
We face the Leopards on Sunday pic.twitter.com/pJZAvPaGWJ
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 13, 2025
Both teams are at full strength and will be battling for a place in the Intercontinental World Cup playoffs.
Nigeria have a nine-game unbeaten run heading into the match, while DR Congo have won four of their last five, losing only to Senegal.
Why Nigeria Should Be Wary of Wan-Bissaka
Wan-Bissaka is known for his ability to shut down wingers, recover possession quickly, and launch counterattacks.
Against the Super Eagles, his agility, tackling precision, and relentless energy on the right flank could frustrate Nigeria’s attacking stars and potentially slow down the Eagles.