Fisayo Dele-Bashiru emerged as Nigeria’s hero in their third consecutive 1-1 draw in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification series against South Africa on Friday night in Uyo.
Finidi George entrusted Dele-Bashiru in his starting XI for the match, and he did not disappoint, scoring the equalizing goal to salvage Nigeria’s unbeaten run.
Despite opening his goal account for Nigeria, Hatayspor midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru expressed mixed emotions after their recent FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa.
Despite his debut goal, Dele-Bashiru shared his disappointment with the team’s 1-1 draw in Uyo on Friday night. The result leaves the Super Eagles in fifth place on the Group C table, posing a challenge for their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Taking to Instagram, Dele-Bashiru expressed his feelings: “I am happy to score on my competitive debut for Nigeria, but disappointed not to come away with three points. Now all focus is on Monday.”
However, the 23-year-old midfielder’s joy was tempered by an injury he sustained during the match. He was forced to leave the field in the 61st minute and was replaced by Alhassan Yusuf. Despite the setback, Dele-Bashiru remains hopeful of being available for the Super Eagles’ next game against the Squirrels of Benin Republic.
