Fisayo Dele-Bashiru inspires Lazio comeback win over Pisa to close Serie A season

In a match featuring two Super Eagles midfielders, Lazio concluded their 2025-26 Serie A campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Pisa at the Olimpico di Roma on Saturday evening.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro were both involved in a fixture that blended individual progression with collective resilience, as the capital side recovered from an early setback to secure a positive finish on home soil in Italy’s top flight Lazio and Pisa in Serie A.

Dele-Bashiru strikes after early setback

Lazio were forced to respond after falling behind in the 23rd minute, when Michel Aebischer delivered a precise cross that was met by Moreo, whose powerful header beat the goalkeeper and gave Pisa the lead. The hosts, however, reacted with intent and control.

In the 33rd minute, Dele-Bashiru restored parity with a composed finish after a well-constructed team move initiated by Belahyane. The turnaround was completed almost immediately, as Pedro converted from close range in the 35th minute to give Lazio a quickfire lead that ultimately proved decisive.

Akinsanmiro’s growing Nigeria prospects

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro’s involvement added further Super Eagles relevance to the encounter, with the midfielder expected to link up with the Nigeria squad in the coming days for the 2026 Unity Cup. He is also part of the group selected for upcoming high-profile friendlies against Poland national football team and Portugal national football team.

The Manchester City academy graduate’s continued inclusion reflects his steady rise within the national setup, as he increasingly becomes part of long-term planning ahead of a packed international schedule with the Nigeria national football team.

Sarri’s trust pays off

After a disrupted first half of the campaign shaped by fitness setbacks and his involvement at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Dele-Bashiru’s situation improved markedly following his return from Morocco. Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri gradually reintegrated him into the squad structure, consistently naming him in matchday selections for the remainder of the season.

The midfielder went on to feature in every match except the goalless draw against Cagliari, where he remained an unused substitute. His increased involvement highlighted growing trust from the technical bench and a stronger sense of reliability in midfield roles.

Mixed season ends without Europe

Despite the encouraging finale, Lazio’s wider campaign ended on a disappointing note. The club finished ninth in the Serie A standings and also suffered defeat to Inter Milan in the Coppa Italia final. As a result, they will miss out on European competition next season, a setback that will influence squad planning and ambitions going forward, particularly regarding Dele-Bashiru’s future at the club.