Lazio secured a 2-1 victory over Pisa at the Olimpico di Roma on Saturday evening to end the 2025-26 Serie A season on a high note, with Super Eagles midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro both featuring in the match. The win marked a strong finish for the Biancocelesti, who finished ninth in the league table and missed out on European football for the next season. Dele-Bashiru, who struggled with fitness and international commitments earlier in the campaign, played a key role in the comeback, scoring the equaliser in the 33rd minute after a well-constructed team move led by Belahyane. Pedro then sealed the win with the decisive goal just two minutes later.
Pisa had taken the lead in the 23rd minute when Moreo powered a header past the Lazio goalkeeper following a precise delivery from Michel Aebischer. The goal gave the visitors a brief advantage, but Lazio responded quickly with a composed finish from Dele-Bashiru, who has been a consistent presence in the squad since returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Manager Maurizio Sarri showed faith in the Nigeria international by including him in every matchday squad for the remainder of the season, with the midfielder starting in all games except for the goalless draw against Cagliari, where he remained on the bench.
Dele-Bashiru’s season was marked by a slow start due to fitness issues and his participation in the AFCON tournament, but he regained form and became a reliable option in midfield for Lazio. His performances have earned him a place in Nigeria’s squad for upcoming friendlies against Poland and Portugal, highlighting his growing importance to the national team. Meanwhile, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro is also set to join the Super Eagles for the 2026 Unity Cup, further underlining the rising prominence of Nigerian talent in Italian football.
Despite their strong finish, Lazio’s season ended without silverware, as they were defeated by Inter Milan in the Coppa Italia final. The ninth-place finish in Serie A means they will not compete in any European competition next season, a setback for the club’s ambitions. However, the performances of players like Dele-Bashiru and Akinsanmiro offer hope for the future, especially as they continue to develop and represent Nigeria on the international stage. Their contributions this season may shape their careers and Nigeria’s midfield options in the years ahead.
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