Nigeria have received a timely boost ahead of their AFCON 2027 qualifying double-header against Tanzania, with Semi Ajayi expected to be available after an injury scare at club level. Footynaija.com reports.
The Hull City defender raised concerns after being substituted during his side’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, November 7. His departure in the 69th minute came after an impressive outing against his former club, leaving questions over whether he would be fit for international duty.
Those worries have since eased, with the problem understood to have been severe muscle cramps rather than a serious injury. Hull manager Sergej Jakirovic also played down the situation, while an initial assessment reportedly found no significant muscular damage.
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Ajayi has now made the trip to Nigeria and joined the Super Eagles camp, putting him in contention for the meetings with the Taifa Stars.
The 32-year-old had been one of Hull’s standout performers against Arsenal before making way. He won seven of eight duels, made four clearances and three tackles, and helped keep the hosts at bay until Martin Odegaard turned in a rebound three minutes after his substitution.
According to reports, Ajayi arrived alongside Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina and goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. The early arrivals have settled into the team’s base in Ikot Ekpene.
The Super Eagles welcome Tanzania to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on November 13 before heading to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture four days later.
Having avoided a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Ajayi’s experience could prove important as Chelle’s men look to collect maximum points from both encounters.
