Zaidu Sanusi’s limited Porto minutes raise questions ahead of Nigeria’s World Cup playoff squad

Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi is facing uncertainty over his place in Eric Chelle’s next Nigeria squad after struggling for game time at Porto.

Since the last international break, the left-back has played only 33 minutes of competitive football.

His solitary appearance came in Porto’s 2-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in the Europa League on October 23. He has since been left out of the matchday squad in four of the club’s last five games.

Sanusi’s limited minutes contrast sharply with his strong showing for Nigeria in October’s international fixtures.

The 28-year-old was a surprise inclusion in Chelle’s squad for the matches against Lesotho and Benin but justified his selection with a solid display against Benin, proving an upgrade on regular starter Bruno Onyemaechi.

His form for the national team may still count in his favour as Chelle prepares to name his squad for the World Cup playoff later this month.

Nigeria are set to play crucial qualifying games that will determine their participation in the 2026 World Cup.

Before the last international window, Sanusi’s lack of club action saw him omitted from the initial list.

He earned a late call-up only after Bright Osayi-Samuel withdrew through injury. Yet his performance against Benin suggested he remains a dependable option at left-back despite limited minutes in Portugal.

Chelle may take that into consideration as he finalises his squad.

Coaches often retain players who deliver consistently at international level even if their club form dips. Sanusi, with his experience and positional discipline, fits that profile.

However, continued absence from Porto’s lineup could weaken his case as competition grows within the Super Eagles camp.

The national team boss will have to balance loyalty to proven performers with the need to reward players in form.

With squad announcements approaching, Sanusi’s inclusion could depend on whether Chelle values match fitness over past reliability.