Lazio playmaker Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has voiced his bittersweet emotions regarding his solo participation in Nigeria’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign. While the 24-year-old midfielder has played a pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ dominant run in Morocco, he remains saddened that he could not share the international stage with his older brother, Tom Dele-Bashiru.
Both siblings initially secured spots in Nigeria’s expansive 54-man preliminary squad in December, but the final selection saw only the younger Dele-Bashiru travel to the tournament, leaving the Watford midfielder—currently on loan at Gençlerbirliği—behind.
Fisayo has proven his worth under head coach Éric Chelle, featuring in the critical group-stage victories against Tanzania and Uganda. His technical contributions in the middle of the park helped the Super Eagles clinch the top spot in Group C with a perfect record of nine points. Despite this professional success, the absence of his brother has weighed heavily on the family, who had anticipated a historic moment for the Dele-Bashiru household.
“The family was really looking forward to it. Unfortunately, he wasn’t selected for the final team,” Fisayo told Victor Modo during a recent interview in the Nigerian camp.
The disappointment has not dampened the midfielder’s long-term resolve. Fisayo maintains a positive outlook, asserting that both he and Tom remain committed to their professional growth and their shared dream of representing Nigeria together in the future. He emphasized that the current setback serves as further motivation for both brothers to continue excelling at the club level in Italy and Turkey, respectively.
Nigeria now prepares for a high-stakes Round of 16 encounter against Mozambique this Monday at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. As the three-time African champions enter the knockout phase, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru remains a key component of a midfield unit tasked with securing Nigeria’s first continental title since 2013. The Super Eagles expect a stern test from the Mambas, but the squad remains confident that their superior firepower and tactical discipline will carry them into the quarter-finals.
About the Author
