UEL wrap: Dele-Bashiru's Lazio, Dessers' Rangers out; Olusesi, Ajayi not called up by Spurs

Allnigeriasoccer.com provides a round-up of Nigeria-eligible players in action during the UEFA Europa League quarterfinal matches played on Thursday, April 17, 2025.

 At the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, it was a night to forget for Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun, who suffered an injury during Rangers’ clash with Athletic Bilbao.

The veteran centre-back was forced off in the 50th minute after a collision with teammate John Souttar early in the second half. He was replaced by Hamza Igamane.

The injury adds to Balogun’s fitness concerns, as he was already a doubt ahead of the crucial encounter.

Despite Cyriel Dessers playing the full 90 minutes, Rangers couldn’t overturn their deficit, crashing out of the competition following a defeat to the Spanish side.

Meanwhile, in Rome, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s Lazio failed to advance to the semifinals. 

Although Dele-Bashiru was an unused substitute, his team delivered an inspired performance, beating Bodø/Glimt 3-1 after extra time at the Stadio Olimpico.

With the tie levelled at 3-3 on aggregate, Lazio faltered during the shootout to lose 3-2 on penalties in front of their home fans. ,

Damola Ajayi and Callum Olusesi were not included in Tottenham Hotspur's matchday squad in a 1-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt at Commerzbank Arena.

Domnic Solanke scored what proved to be the game-winning goal two minutes before halftime when he converted a spot kick. 

Ajayi made his senior debut for Spurs against Elfsborg, while Olusesi was a second half substitute against TSG Hoffenheim in January. 

Adeyemi Adewale

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