Dele-Bashiru’s Lazio form gives Nigeria coach Chelle selection decision

Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has given Eric Chelle another option to consider before Nigeria’s crucial African Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers against Tanzania.

Dele-Bashiru scored his first goal of the season in Lazio’s Serie A victory at Juventus last weekend, producing a solo effort in which he went past two defenders. The performance was highlighted in Pulse Sports Nigeria’s weekend round-up on 19 October.

Lazio have continued their strong start since that result. They defeated Parma 2-1 on Saturday to move to the top of Serie A with 22 points from eight matches, having recorded seven wins and one draw. They travel to Sassuolo on Tuesday, giving Dele-Bashiru another opportunity to build momentum before Nigeria’s squad is announced.

The midfielder’s form comes at an important time for the Super Eagles, who need maximum points from their two November matches against Tanzania if they are to strengthen their chances of reaching AFCON 2027.

Nigeria are second in Group L with three points, three behind Guinea-Bissau, who beat them 3-0. Tanzania have already qualified as co-hosts, leaving only one automatic qualifying place available to the other teams in the group.

As a result, Nigeria’s two fixtures against Tanzania are close to must-win matches. Chelle’s team cannot afford further dropped points if they are to remain in contention for the tournament.

Dele-Bashiru’s goal at Juventus makes him a potentially attractive option for a coach seeking an attacking contribution from midfield. However, one goal is not enough on its own to establish a sustained run of form, and his prospects will also depend on how effectively he can operate within Chelle’s preferred system.

Competition for places in the Nigeria squad is also developing. Chelle’s choices in defence may change, with Banik Ostrava defender Abdullahi Bewene reported to be joining the group.

The trip to Sassuolo could therefore be significant for Dele-Bashiru. Another influential display would give him one more chance to strengthen his claim before the coach finalises his selection for the Tanzania matches.