Super Eagles: 2 options to replace Semi Ajayi against Tanzania

The Super Eagles have been handed a potential injury setback ahead of their AFCON 2027 qualifying doubleheader against Tanzania this month, with Hull City defender Semi Ajayi now an injury doubt.

The 32-year-old was included in Eric Chelle’s initial 24-man squad for the qualifiers and was expected to play an important role in both matches, having established a strong centre-back partnership with Calvin Bassey.

However, his involvement is now in doubt after he suffered an injury during Hull City’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Premier League champions Arsenal on Saturday.

Ajayi started the encounter, making his 10th league appearance of the season for Sergej Jakirovic’s side, but was forced off in the 69th minute with an injury while the game was still goalless. His absence was eventually felt as Hull City conceded just three minutes after he left the pitch, going on to lose the match 1-0.

According to RotoWire, the full extent of the injury is not yet known, although the defender could miss a considerable period, which could eventually rule him out of the Super Eagles’ doubleheader against Tanzania this month.

His potential absence would be a major setback for Nigeria, especially with little room for mistakes as they look to get their qualification campaign back on track. 

Chelle may now have to consider other defensive options and call up a replacement if Ajayi is unable to recover in time.

2 players who could replace Semi Ajayi against Tanzania

1. Emmanuel Fernandez

One player who could replace Semi Ajayi is Rangers centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez, who was a notable omission from Chelle’s 24-man squad announced on Saturday.

The 24-year-old made his Super Eagles debut earlier this year and has since gained more experience at club level.

Although his recent form has dropped, Fernandez remains an option Chelle could consider bringing back into the squad. The Rangers centre-back offers physical strength and a strong presence in aerial duels, qualities that could be useful for Nigeria against Tanzania.

His previous experience with the national team could also work in his favour, as he is already familiar with Chelle’s setup and would not be entirely new to the squad.

With Ajayi potentially unavailable, Fernandez could get another opportunity to represent the Super Eagles and strengthen his position in the national team.

2. Victory Akpe

Another player who could come into consideration is Victory Akpe, who could earn another call-up to the Super Eagles and potentially make his senior international debut.

Akpe was previously invited to join Chelle’s squad ahead of Nigeria’s friendly against Russia but eventually withdrew, missing the opportunity to make his first appearance for the national team.

However, with Ajayi now facing a possible spell on the sidelines, the young defender could get another opportunity to join the Super Eagles.

Although he is yet to make his senior international debut, the Tanzania doubleheader could provide him with an opportunity to impress and potentially earn his first cap for the three-time African champions.

How the Super Eagles could line up without Ajayi

The Super Eagles are already set to be without Victor Osimhen for the Tanzania fixtures, and losing Ajayi would represent another huge blow for Chelle ahead of the two encounters.

Ajayi and Bassey have formed the coach’s preferred centre-back partnership, with the Hull City defender usually occupying the right side of the defence while Bassey operates as the left-sided centre-back.

However, if Ajayi is ruled out, Benjamin Fredrick could be the leading candidate to partner Bassey at the heart of the defence.

The young defender has impressed with his performances and could be trusted to step into the starting lineup. His ability to operate in central defence makes him a suitable option to fill the gap, while his previous experience with the Super Eagles could also work in his favour.

Another possibility is Chibuike Nwaiwu, who could also come into consideration if Chelle decides against using Fredrick.

Nwaiwu offers another option at centre-back and could provide the physical presence Nigeria would need to deal with Tanzania’s attacking threat.

Nigeria will host Tanzania in the first leg of the AFCON 2027 qualifying doubleheader in Uyo on November 13 before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture on November 17.

The Super Eagles will be hoping to secure positive results in both matches as they look to revive their qualification campaign and put themselves in a stronger position in Group L.