When Super Eagles head coach Austin Eguavoen introduced Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in the second half of Nigeria’s clash against Libya, the objective was clear: inject fresh energy and attacking impetus into the Nigerian side.
The tactical adjustment paid off as Dele-Bashiru delivered the decisive goal, latching onto a pinpoint cross from Moses Simon.
That crucial strike secured Nigeria a 1-0 win, consolidating their position at the top of Group D in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
For Dele-Bashiru, this performance was another step forward in his quest to cement a regular spot in the Super Eagles starting line-up.
Despite being on the fringes of the starting XI, the 23-year-old has consistently demonstrated his readiness to make an impact for Nigeria.
In just five appearances for the Super Eagles, Dele-Bashiru has already contributed two goals and an assist—an impressive return for a player who has featured in both defensive and attacking midfield roles.
After his standout performance in the 1-1 draw against South Africa in June, many believed the former Sheffield Wednesday star had earned the right to be a regular starter. His recent heroics against Libya will only strengthen those claims.
Dele-Bashiru's national team journey
Dele-Bashiru first caught the attention of Nigerian football fans when he received his maiden call-up for the 2023 international friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique.
However, his connection with the national team dates back to 2019 when, as a 17-year-old, he was part of Nigeria’s training camp ahead of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland.
Though his talent was evident, the coaching staff deemed the young midfielder too inexperienced for the tournament.
His older brother, Tom Dele-Bashiru, made the squad and even scored in Nigeria’s opening match against Qatar.
Following that disappointment, Fisayo returned to club football with Sheffield Wednesday, where he focused on improving his game and building his physique.
His hard work paid off, and a move to Turkish side Hatayspor followed, where he impressed with eight goals in 36 appearances.
Those performances caught the eye of Serie A club Lazio, who signed him on loan ahead of the 2023–24 season.
So far, Dele-Bashiru has made a positive start in Italy, contributing one goal and one assist in five appearances across all competitions.
Rising star in the Super Eagles
Dele-Bashiru’s growth within the Super Eagles setup has been steady.
Despite being included in nine squad call-ups, he has started only three matches, but his output—two goals and an assist—shows his value as an impact player.
His display against Libya further reinforced his importance to the team.
After coming on as a substitute, Dele-Bashiru’s energy and incisiveness helped drive Nigeria’s attack in the later stages of the match.
His positioning and composure in front of goal ensured he was in the right place to convert Simon’s cross and give Nigeria the three points.
As the Super Eagles prepare for the second leg against Libya, Coach Eguavoen will be hoping Dele-Bashiru can replicate his performance and help Nigeria secure a double over their North African rivals.
