Nigerian media react to West Brom star Semi Ajayi after ‘disappointing’ development
West Brom star Semi Ajayi was in action as the Nigerian media reacted to their 1-1 draw against South Africa on Friday (7 June).
The Super Eagles have continued to falter in their 2026 World Cup Qualification bid, drawing for the third time in as many matches, leaving them fifth in Group C following 1-1 draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.
Ajayi played 80 minutes for Nigeria before being hooked as the media slammed the national team for continuing their “disappointing” start to the campaign. [Pulse Sports]
Reacting to the match [7 June], Complete Sports awarded the Baggies defender a 5/10 rating, writing: “Had a difficult time coping with the tricky South African forwards. He was replaced by Raphael Onyedika 10 minutes from time.”
The Athletic NG [8 June] gave Ajayi a more reasonable 6.9/10 rating, writing: “Strong defensively, good passing, but beaten for Zwane’s goal.”
West Brom star Semi Ajayi falters in Nigeria v South Africa
Looking back at South Africa’s opening goal, Ajayi will be disappointed with his defending as Themba Zwane was allowed to walk into the penalty area before unleashing a shot.
The 30-year-old centre-back has mostly been a backup for Carlos Corberan this season, having only started 10 Championship matches, so his lack of match sharpness may come into play.
At just 30 years of age, the centre-back will still have plenty of football to play and energy to give out, which could be important for West Brom ahead of next season.
Though Kyle Bartley and Cedric Kipre are likely to be first-choice defenders in the Championship next season, Ajayi still looks to be a vital part of Corberan’s squad.
But if the Super Eagles are to turn their World Cup fortunes around, they need Ajayi to put the mistake behind him and look ahead, with a key match against Benin on the horizon.
In other West Brom news, a date has been locked in for the Baggies to begin their pre-season programme.
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