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CAF to introduce VAR for World Cup playoffs The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reportedly confirmed that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be implemented for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs, a move that could influence Nigeria's path to the tournament. The Super Eagles are set to participate in a crucial four-team playoff tournament in Morocco this month after securing their spot as one of the best second-placed teams from the group stage. Nigeria is scheduled to face Gabon, with the winner advancing to play either DR Congo or Cameroon for a single World Cup ticket. In a notable shift from the group qualifiers, where VAR was not used, the technology will now be in operation for these high-stakes matches. This decision introduces a new layer of scrutiny to officiating, which could have both positive and negative consequences for the Nigerian team. The presence of VAR means that contentious decisions will be subject to review. For instance, a goal like Calvin Bassey's against South Africa, which some argued involved a handball, would likely have been disallowed under VAR. Conversely, the system could offer protection against dangerous play that might otherwise go unpunished. A key example was the challenge that resulted in Victor Osimhen's injury against Rwanda in August, a tackle that many believed warranted a red card but was missed by the on-field referee. With VAR, such incidents are more likely to be penalised correctly. As the Super Eagles prepare for the decisive fixtures in Morocco, the team will be hoping that the introduction of VAR ultimately works in their favour as they continue their quest for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
