Nigeria’s Super Eagles will be without experienced defender Semi Ajayi for the final two matches of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers, following a significant hamstring injury. The 30-year-old West Bromwich Albion player, a central figure in Nigeria’s defensive lineup, is expected to be sidelined for four months, missing critical games against Benin and Rwanda as well as a large part of the English Championship season.
Ajayi sustained the injury during West Brom’s recent 0-0 draw with Cardiff City in the Championship.
The setback occurred late in the match, forcing Ajayi off the field and requiring an immediate substitution by teammate Mason Holgate.
Subsequent medical assessments revealed the severity of the injury, with scans confirming that surgery will be necessary to stabilize his hamstring and prevent future damage.
West Brom manager Carlos Corberán, addressing Ajayi’s injury, confirmed that surgery was the best option for the defender’s long-term recovery.
Unfortunately, Semi suffered a more serious injury,” Corberán said.
It was an accident in which he broke the muscle in two parts.
The best way to manage this injury is surgery, because it reduces the risk of suffering this type of injury again.”
Explaining the rationale behind the surgical approach, Corberán noted, “There are injuries that affect the tendon in specific areas where surgery is required.
The operation delays things by about two weeks, but it also reduces the risk of the injury recurring.
The operation is expected to extend Ajayi’s recovery by around 16 weeks.
Ajayi’s absence poses a significant challenge for the Nigerian national team as they gear up for two key AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
Since his debut with the Super Eagles in 2018, Ajayi has earned 41 caps, establishing himself as a crucial part of Nigeria’s defense with his experience and leadership.
Head coach José Peseiro will now need to adjust his defensive setup for the upcoming matches against Benin and Rwanda, both of which are essential to secure Nigeria’s place in the tournament scheduled to be held in Morocco.
The timing of the injury leaves the Super Eagles with limited options, as the qualifying matches approach.
Ajayi’s leadership on the field has been invaluable, and his absence may require Peseiro to consider younger, less experienced defenders to fill the gap.
As Ajayi’s absence weakens the team’s defensive stability, the coach faces the dual task of ensuring defensive cohesion and fostering confidence in his replacement players.
The injury is also a blow to West Bromwich Albion, who are currently struggling with a series of injuries across their lineup.
Already facing absences of key players like Kyle Bartley, Paddy McNair, and Daryl Dike, the loss of Ajayi adds further pressure to Corberán’s side as they aim to stay competitive in the Championship.
West Brom has relied heavily on Ajayi’s physicality, tactical awareness, and aerial ability, and his prolonged absence will require tactical adjustments to fill the defensive void he leaves behind.
Despite the setback, Corberán expressed optimism regarding Ajayi’s long-term recovery, reiterating the importance of a full rehabilitation.
He’s expected to return in about 16 weeks, that’s the approximate time when you have this type of operation,” Corberán stated, indicating that the club will prioritize Ajayi’s health over rushing him back onto the field.
With the AFCON qualifiers nearing, Ajayi’s injury underscores the importance of depth within Nigeria’s squad.
As the Super Eagles prepare to face formidable opponents, the challenge will lie not only in securing qualification but in maintaining the stability Ajayi brought to the lineup.
