Browsing: NIGERIAN FOOTBALL

“We must not underestimate any team, especially during the group stage,” he said. “We have to be mentally ready and give our all from the very first game.”

With 24 goals and 7 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions, the 30-year-old is now just one goal shy of the 25-goal target he set for himself at the start of the campaign.

Ajayi, 31, has struggled with recurrent hamstring issues this season, limiting him to just 14 appearances out of West Brom’s 44 matches.

As the season enters its decisive phase, Dele-Bashiru will be eager to return to full fitness and play a key role in Lazio’s run-in.

The match served as the final tune-up for both teams ahead of the 2025 U-20 AFCON, which kicks off this weekend in Egypt.

During his absence, Sevilla brought in Swiss international Ruben Vargas, who has since cemented a starting role, leaving Ejuke to play catch-up in the squad pecking order.

With Inter missing key players like Marcus Thuram and Denzel Dumfries, Milan capitalized on their rivals’ weakened setup.

Corona noted that while Sadiq has made a strong case to be considered for a permanent transfer, the club is currently prioritizing its short-term objectives.

Ndidi is under contract with Leicester until 2027, having signed an extension after turning down interest from Barcelona last year.

Nigeria are placed in Group B and will open their campaign against Tunisia on Thursday.