AfriPulse
Nigeria midfielder, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, has admitted to mixed emotions at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after missing out on the chance to share the pitch with his younger brother, Tom, for the Super Eagles.
Both siblings were initially included in Nigeria’s expanded 54-man provisional squad released in early December ahead of the tournament. However, when the final list was trimmed down before the team travelled to Morocco, only Fisayo made the cut, leaving Tom on the outside.
Fisayo, who features for Italian Serie A side Lazio, has been a regular presence for Nigeria during the group stage of the AFCON. He played key roles in victories over Tanzania and Uganda, results that saw the Super Eagles finish top of Group C with a perfect nine points.
Despite Nigeria’s strong start, the midfielder admitted that Tom’s absence weighed heavily on him and their family.
Speaking to Victor Modo, Fisayo said, “The family was really looking forward to it. Unfortunately, he wasn’t selected for the final team.”
The 24-year-old explained that representing Nigeria alongside his brother would have been a special moment, not just for him personally but also for those close to them who had anticipated seeing the pair line up together in national colours.
Still, Fisayo insists the disappointment has not derailed their shared ambitions. He remains confident that the opportunity to feature together for Nigeria will come in the future.
Nigeria’s attention now turns to the knockout stages, with a Round of 16 clash against Mozambique next on the agenda as the Super Eagles continue their quest to reclaim the continental crown.
Source: Naijanews.com | Read the Full Story…
