Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has expressed his surprise at receiving a call-up to the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national football team, especially considering that his elder brother, Tom Dele-Bashiru, was widely expected to be selected first. Born in Manchester to Nigerian parents, the brothers have both chosen to represent Nigeria internationally despite their English upbringing. Fisayo’s unexpected selection comes after Tom, a midfielder currently playing for Watford in the English Championship, had been seen as the more likely candidate for the senior team due to his prior involvement with the Nigerian youth setup, particularly his notable performances at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland.
Fisayo, who had not previously participated in Nigerian youth teams, was taken aback but grateful for the opportunity to represent his country. He stated, “I’ve always been surprised that I would be given an opportunity to play for my country at this stage of my career.” He expressed his eagerness to seize this chance and his admiration for his brother, who remains supportive of his achievements despite the sibling rivalry. The two often share laughs over this situation, with Fisayo emphasizing his intention to honor his family’s legacy through his success on the pitch.
The younger Dele-Bashiru’s journey to the national team has been marked by his progress with club football, where he has demonstrated potential through significant performances. His debut for Nigeria in a friendly match against Mozambique yielded a goal, showcasing his capabilities as an attacking midfielder. His connection to the national team dates back to 2019 when he was part of the training camp for the U-20 World Cup, even though he ultimately did not make it to the final squad. This experience has enriched his understanding of the game, allowing him to better integrate with the senior team in subsequent years.
Since being called up to the Super Eagles, Fisayo has been included in nine squad selections, starting in three matches, where he has managed to score two goals and provide an assist. His contributions, especially during critical matches, indicate his potential as an impactful player for Nigeria. His most notable performance came during a match against Libya, where his skills on the field helped secure a significant victory for the national team. As the Super Eagles prepare for their next encounter against Libya, coach Austine Eguavoen is hopeful that Fisayo can replicate his strong showing and play a decisive role in further strengthening Nigeria’s position.
In reflecting on his brother’s journey, it’s apparent that both Fisayo and Tom Dele-Bashiru share a deep commitment to their Nigerian heritage, despite the opportunities available to them in England. With Tom’s established career in the championship and Fisayo’s rapid ascent to the national team, the brothers serve as representations of dedication and talent within Nigerian football. Their sibling dynamic, mixed with the pressures and expectations of professional sport, has created an environment where both can thrive and support one another.
Ultimately, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s call-up to the Super Eagles is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the growing talent pool within Nigerian football. His story, juxtaposed against his brother’s, highlights the unpredictable nature of sports selection and the importance of persistence and performance. As fans eagerly watch the Dele-Bashiru brothers, excitement builds around the potential of their contributions to the national team and the future of Nigerian football.
