Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is facing a race against time to be fit for Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after suffering a thigh injury at Lazio.
Dele-Bashiru was forced off during Lazio’s Serie A opener against Bologna on Monday after experiencing a problem with the flexor muscles of his right thigh.
The Nigeria international underwent instrumental medical tests on Wednesday to determine the extent of the injury, with the results confirming a first-degree flexor strain.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Dele-Bashiru is expected to remain sidelined for approximately 15 to 20 days.
The setback is a concern for Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, with Nigeria preparing for the start of their 2027 Afcon qualifying campaign next month.
Nigeria have been drawn in Group L alongside Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and Tanzania, with the first matchday scheduled to begin on September 21.
Dele-Bashiru’s recovery timeline means he could return around the period of Nigeria’s opening qualifiers, but his availability remains uncertain.
Missing several matches for Lazio could also affect his match fitness ahead of the international window.
The 25-year-old has become an important option in Chelle’s midfield, making his injury a potential selection headache for the Super Eagles coach.
While Dele-Bashiru has not been officially ruled out of Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers, his 15-20-day layoff puts his participation in doubt, with his recovery over the coming weeks expected to determine whether he can join the national team.
Wale Adejumo
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