Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, the 24-year-old Lazio midfielder, is poised for a timely return to action, injecting a surge of optimism into Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualification campaign. His recovery from an ankle injury sustained in February, initially projected to sideline him for 15 days, has progressed remarkably well, potentially clearing him for the crucial upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. This represents a significant boost for the Super Eagles, who are currently struggling in their qualifying group and desperately need victories to revive their hopes of reaching the tournament. Dele-Bashiru’s presence in the midfield adds a vital dimension to the team’s attacking prowess, offering creativity, goal-scoring potential, and a much-needed boost in morale.
Dele-Bashiru’s journey back to fitness has been carefully managed by Lazio’s medical team. After missing key matches for his club, including clashes against Inter Milan and AC Milan, he gradually resumed training. Starting with rondo drills and activation exercises, he progressed to individual athletic training, marking a significant step towards a full return. While his participation in Lazio’s European fixture against Plzeň remained unlikely, the positive trajectory of his recovery suggests he could be available for selection in subsequent matches, including the crucial World Cup qualifiers. This cautious approach underscores the importance placed on his long-term well-being and ensures he returns to the pitch at peak performance, minimizing the risk of re-injury.
The midfielder’s potential availability is a welcome development for both Lazio and the Nigerian national team. For Lazio, it strengthens their squad depth as they navigate a demanding season across multiple competitions. For Nigeria, it provides a much-needed boost to their World Cup qualification prospects. Currently sitting fifth in their group, the Super Eagles face a must-win situation in their upcoming matches. Dele-Bashiru’s ability to contribute both creatively and with goals could be the decisive factor in turning their fortunes around. His presence in the midfield adds a layer of dynamism and attacking threat, potentially sparking a resurgence in the team’s performance.
Since his debut for the Super Eagles in October 2023, Dele-Bashiru has quickly established himself as a valuable asset. In just six appearances, he has already scored two crucial goals, demonstrating his knack for finding the back of the net in high-pressure situations. His first international goal came in a World Cup qualifier against South Africa, highlighting his ability to perform on the biggest stage. He followed this up with another goal in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in African football. These contributions underscore his potential to be a game-changer for Nigeria, particularly in their current predicament.
Dele-Bashiru’s journey to this point is a testament to his resilience and dedication. Having joined Lazio on loan from Hatayspor last summer, he quickly adapted to the demands of Serie A, showcasing his talent and earning a place in the starting lineup. The ankle injury he suffered in February was a setback, but his determined approach to rehabilitation has paved the way for a swifter-than-expected return. This resilience is a valuable asset, not only for his club but also for the Nigerian national team as they face the challenging road to World Cup qualification.
The Super Eagles’ midfield has been an area of concern, and Dele-Bashiru’s return addresses a key weakness within the squad. His ability to control the tempo of the game, create scoring opportunities, and contribute goals himself adds a new dimension to Nigeria’s attacking play. His presence will not only bolster the midfield but also alleviate pressure on other attacking players, allowing them to flourish. The upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe will be a litmus test for the Super Eagles, and Dele-Bashiru’s potential inclusion could be the catalyst they need to reignite their World Cup dream. His return is not just about adding a player to the roster; it’s about injecting a sense of hope and belief into a team that desperately needs a spark.
