International media tear into West Brom star Semi Ajayi despite Nigeria win at AFCON
West Brom star Semi Ajayi played 90 minutes for Nigeria in their 1-0 win against Guinea-Bissau which saw them progress to the next stage of the Africa Cup of Nations, but the media were not pleased with his display.
An own goal from Guinea-Bissau defender Opa Sangante proved to be the winner in a second consecutive 1-0 win for the Super Eagles, keeping another clean sheet at the tournament.
However, Ajayi, playing as the right-sided defender in a back three, has been widely criticised for his performance despite the clean sheet and progression into the round of 16.
Nigerian news outlet Soccernet rated Ajayi as a 5.8/10 as they wrote: “The West Bromwich Albion central defender was the weak link in the back three. He was shaky on the ball and lost possession a few times. He struggled with the physicality of the game yet again, and that will be something for Jose Peseiro to keep an eye on.”
Meanwhile, All Nigeria Soccer handed him a score of 6/10, writing: “He was the least impressive of the three centre-backs, winning 3 of the six ground duels, 1 of his three ground duels, and 1 clearance. Picked up a caution just before half-time.”
Despite helping his side to a second consecutive clean sheet, which has been a key part of their AFCON progress due to their lack of clinical finishing at the opposite end after a 1-1 draw and two 1-0 wins, Ajayi disappointed the fans in his display.
He has been an ever-present in defence under the management of Peseiro, with the boss trusting his defensive line to help them in games where they may struggle going forward. He won just one of four aerial duels and only three of six ground duels as he struggled to cope with the opposition forwards. [Sofascore]
Ajayi lost possession nine times in the game as he looked to build from the back, as well as committing four fouls which earned him a yellow card before half-time.
Nigeria will have set themselves the goal of winning AFCON this year, and having already beaten the favourites and hosts Ivory Coast in the group stage, they will be confident of going all the way. Ajayi, though, will have to step up.
In other West Brom news, new transfer fears have emerged at The Hawthorns.
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