Super Eagles vs Tanzania: Semi Ajayi availability update after Arsenal injury

Semi Ajayi is available for Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania after escaping a serious injury in Hull City’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal.

The defender was forced off with a suspected muscle injury during the Premier League match on Saturday, November 7, fuelling worries about his availability for the Super Eagles’ double-header.

However, Ajayi’s withdrawal was down to severe muscle cramps rather than a serious injury. The 32-year-old has since arrived in Nigeria to join Éric Chelle’s squad ahead of the two fixtures.

What happened to Semi Ajayi against Arsenal?

Semi Ajayi put in a strong defensive performance against his former club at the Emirates Stadium before leaving the pitch in the 69th minute.

The Nigerian made four clearances, three tackles and one block, winning seven of his eight duels. He also completed 17 of his 20 passes as Hull City held Arsenal at bay for much of the match.

His substitution proved costly for the visitors. Lucas Herrington came on for Ajayi, but Arsenal scored just three minutes later. Martin Ødegaard converted a rebound in the 72nd minute to secure a 1-0 win for the hosts.

Ajayi’s display earned him a place in WhoScored’s Premier League Team of the Week, despite the Tigers’ defeat.

Hull City manager Sergej Jakirović later eased concerns about the defender’s fitness, explaining that he had suffered severe cramps after a demanding shift against Arsenal.

The initial medical assessment found no serious muscular damage, meaning Ajayi would not need an extended spell out of action.

Ajayi arrives in Super Eagles camp ahead of Tanzania clash

First batch!!!

Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Arthur Okonkwo, Semi Ajayi, Benjamin Fedrick, Alhassan Yusuf, Bright Osayi & Victor Moses all arrive Uyo ahead of Tanzania clash. #PoojaInUyo pic.twitter.com/TH2a4ksh5u

— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) November 10, 2026

Semi Ajayi has arrived in Nigeria and joined his teammates in camp ahead of the Tanzania fixtures.

He travelled alongside fellow defenders Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick, as well as Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina and goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.

The early arrivals have checked into the Super Eagles’ base at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Ikot Ekpene. Full training sessions are scheduled to begin later on Tuesday.

Chelle’s side will face Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return leg on November 17.

One of Hull City’s best performers in the Premier League, Ajayi will look to bring his quality and experience to bear as Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare for the two crucial Group L qualifiers.