Ajayi dropped from Hull starting XI after repeating similar mistake he made in WCQ v Lesotho

Super Eagles central defender Semi Ajayi was left out of the starting lineup in Hull City’s 3–2 victory over Portsmouth on Saturday afternoon, following a costly error that denied the Tigers a point in their midweek clash against Derby County.

With the game tied at 1–1 against Derby, Ajayi’s miscommunication with goalkeeper Ivor Pandur in the closing minutes allowed Lars-Jorgen Salvesen to pounce and score the winner in the 83rd minute.

The mistake drew comparisons to a similar incident involving Ajayi and Stanley Nwabali during Nigeria's 2–1 victory over Lesotho in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where a lapse in communication nearly gifted the visitors a goal.

In response to the recent blunder, Hull City manager Sergej Jakirović opted to drop Ajayi to the bench against Portsmouth, preferring the defensive pairing of John Egan and Charles Hughes. 

The decision also saw Jakirović revert from a back three to a traditional back four.

Ajayi, however, was introduced late in the game, replacing Joe Gelhardt in the final five minutes as Hull City sought to protect their narrow lead.

The Nigerian international used his aerial strength effectively to help the Tigers withstand Portsmouth’s late pressure and secure the win.

Adeyemi Adewale

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