Ahead of FC Porto vs Celoricense clash in the Portuguese Cup, Martín Anselmi will be without his Nigerian left-back, Zaidu Sanusi, for this game after the Super Eagles fullback picked up an injury during international duty.

Sanusi sustained the issue during Nigeria’s 4-0 win over Benin in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Uyo on October 14, forcing him off with sixteen minutes remaining, Footballrover reports.

Zaidu Sanusi to Miss Porto vs Celoricense Clash

Porto manager Francesco Farioli confirmed at his pre-match press conference on Friday that Sanusi returned from international duty carrying a leg problem.

The club’s medical team has since revealed that the Nigerian international is undergoing treatment for a right calf injury.

“Zaidu didn’t arrive in the best physical condition; he returned with a leg problem. He won’t be in tomorrow’s game,” Farioli told reporters.

While Porto have not provided a definitive timeline for his return, the setback rules him out of facing Celoricense in the third round of the Portuguese Cup.

Implications for Porto and the Super Eagles

Sanusi’s absence is a blow for Porto, who will need to adjust their defensive options ahead of the cup fixture.

The left-back had recently secured his place back in the Super Eagles squad following an impressive performance for Porto, but now, his injury raises concerns for Nigeria ahead of their crucial World Cup playoff against Gabon next month.

Nigeria’s fullback department is already dealing with injuries, from Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina to Birmingham City’s Bright Osayi-Samuel, making Sanusi’s setback another challenge for coach Eric Chelle.

After more than twenty months away from international football, Sanusi had fought his way back into the national team, featuring in both October qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin.

Porto will hope to cope without their key defender while Zaidu undergoes treatment and works toward a full recovery.

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Last Updated on October 18, 2025 1:27 am by footballrover