2026 WCQ:Super Eagles Suffer Setback As Semi Ajayi Handed One-Match Suspension
1 min read
By Sportsgister
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will be without reliable defender Semi Ajayi when they face Gabon in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff fixture.
Ajayi, who features for English Championship side Hull City, is suspended after receiving his second yellow card of the qualifying series during Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Benin Republic on Tuesday.
The towering centre-back was cautioned in the 55th minute for a foul on Benin Republic goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbe, ruling him out of the upcoming tie.
According to match records, Ajayi’s first booking came during the opening Group C fixture against Lesotho on November 16, 2023, making the Benin booking his second in the campaign — which automatically triggers a one-match suspension under FIFA rules.
Despite Ajayi’s absence, the Super Eagles will be boosted by the return of Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman, who missed the Benin clash due to a previous suspension.
The playoff showdown against Gabon is scheduled to take place in Morocco on Thursday, November 13, with Nigeria aiming to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
