Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been dealt a significant blow just before the crucial 2025 AFCON qualifiers, as key defender Semi Ajayi faces a lengthy recovery. The 30-year-old West Bromwich Albion player, who has been a defensive stalwart for both club and country, is set to miss the next four months following surgery on a high-grade hamstring tear.

Ajayi, a fixture in Albion’s lineup this season with appearances in all twelve EFL Championship games, sustained the injury during a recent goalless draw against Cardiff City. Pulled from the field in the 79th minute, he was later confirmed to have suffered a severe tear, putting him out of contention not only for his club but also for Nigeria’s upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifiers against the Republic of Benin and Rwanda.

West Brom’s head coach, Carlos Corberan, lamented the loss of multiple defenders, including Ajayi, Kyle Bartley, and Paddy McNair, all sidelined within a single week due to separate injuries. The trio’s absence presents a challenge for the club, especially as they navigate the demanding EFL Championship schedule.

For Nigeria, Ajayi’s absence leaves a gap in defense, but options remain. Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Tanimu, and veteran William Troost-Ekong are expected to step up as dependable replacements for coach Augustine Eguavoen. However, with Olisah Ndah also out for the year, the team will need to rely heavily on its defensive depth to carry them through this qualification campaign.