2026 World Cup Qualifiers: 39-cap Super Eagles star at risk of missing Rwada, Zimbabwe games

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.

Semi Ajayi (Photo credit: Imago)Semi Ajayi (Photo credit: Imago)
Semi Ajayi (Photo credit: Imago)

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?

Semi Ajayi (Photo credit: Imago)

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.

Super Eagles defenders (Photo credit: Imago)

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.

Kelvin Omachonu

Kelvin Omachonu is a writer with many years of experience covering sports events in Nigeria and abroad. He is fueled by his love for the job, and is dedicated to delivering captivating stories.

Share
Published by
Kelvin Omachonu

Recent Posts

Why Nigerian club owners are increasingly investing millions in the Viareggio Cup

Four Nigerian clubs will participate in the 2025 Viareggio Cup in Italy. It is a… Read More

4 hours ago

Tosin Adarabioyo’s stats vs Aston Villa: Should Eric Chelle consider Chelsea star for March fixtures?

Super Eagles-eligible defender Tosin Adarabioyo endured a tough outing as Chelsea FC fell 2-1 to… Read More

4 hours ago

“Gasperini overreacted” – Nigeria great Okocha joins Samuel Eto’o in Lookman’s defence

Nigeria legend Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has come to the defence of Ademola Lookman following the… Read More

6 hours ago

“My angel,” says Ayra Starr to Tems as she watches Arsenal fall to West Ham and poses with Saka

Nigerian music stars Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, known as Ayra Starr, and Grammy Award winner Temilade… Read More

9 hours ago

“A really difficult afternoon”- Cyriel Dessers laments Rangers’ shock loss to St Mirren

Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers has expressed disappointment at Rangers' surpruse 2-0 loss to St… Read More

11 hours ago

Drama in Atalanta: Gasperini makes big decision amid fallout with Ademola Lookman

Atalanta coach Gian Pero Gasperini has told the club that he will not extend his… Read More

1 day ago