Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi is in danger of missing Nigeria's upcoming 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda in March after sustaining an injury in West Brom's 2-0 win over Oxford United, Soccernet.ng reports.
The last five months have been torrid for Ajayi, as he has spent most of his time sidelined due to an injury. Last October, he suffered a hamstring injury and that kept him out of action until February.
Upon the Super Eagles star's returned to action, coach Tony Mowbray was careful about his situation, reducing his minutes drastically.
However, Ajayi started the last two games for West Brom. Unfortunately, he got injured in their last game against Oxford United on Saturday.
The Super Eagles defender hobbled off in the 41st minute and was replaced by former Everton man Mason Holgate.
It is believed that Ajayi suffered a relapse. But he would have to undergo tests go ascertain the extent of theb injury and how long he will spend on the treatment table.
Can Semi Ajayi make it back in time for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers?
As it is, Ajayi is a big doubt for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers next month. But if it is not a serious issue, he would still have to be sidelined for two weeks at least.
The Super Eagles star has four weeks to return in time for the game. Even if the 31-year-old defender returns to action soon, West Brom will be cautious about Ajayi's injury problems.
If Semi Ajayi does not make it back in time, it will be a big blow for him, as he is an integral member of the backline. Nonetheless, coach Eric Chelle will have to make do with the other players like Olisa Ndah, Benjamin Tanimu, and Gabriel Osho.
I understand that in sports, athletes pick up injuries, but why is Nigeria’s own different?
A week or two to crucial qualification matches, the familiar trend in the Super Eagles squad is the announcement that injury has robbed Nigeria of one or more key players, etc. Watch out for the likes of Victor Boniface and Osimhen. The pastor in the Glass House responsible for casting out and pulling down must rise up and be counted or face the sack. Ahh ahh! Lol…