Nigeria's savior joins Lazio

The last few weeks have been like a dream for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. First, he scored his first international goal in only his second match for the Super Eagles. He was the team's saviour in the South Africa clash, scoring an equalizer at the start of the second half and keeping the team's hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup alive. Only ten days later, he is up for a transfer of his career so far and will join the Italian side Lazio. This transfer should undoubtedly help the 23-year-old further develop and continue the tradition of Nigerian players at the Roman club.

Namely, Dele-Bashiru will become the fifth Super Eagle to wear the sky blue jersey. The first name that probably comes to mind is Ogenyi Onazi, a former Nigerian international who spent four years with Biancocelesti, playing 110 matches and scoring seven goals. Another Onazi's compatriot who is remembered by Lazio fans is the robust forward Stephen Makinwa. He spent as many as six years at Stadio Olimpico, recorded 56 appearances and found the net three times. Except for the two of them, Seyi Adeleke and Daniel Ola were part of the Italian side, but neither of them got the chance to debut.

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The new Lazio acquisition spent as many as 11 years in Manchester City's youth categories but never became a part of the Cityzens' first team. Upon leaving Etihad, Dele-Bashiru joined Sheffield Wednesday in 2020 and, after three seasons with the Owls, moved to Hatayspor. After a single season with the Turkish side, which bought him for only 300.000 euros, he is now ready for a breakthrough transfer. Last season, the Nigerian recorded six goals and five assists at the club from Antakya.