Porto coach reveals extent of Zaidu Sanusi’s injury

Retold by Oddsrama · 30 August 2026

Porto's Nigerian left-back Zaidu Sanusi faces an extended spell on the sidelines after picking up what manager Francesco Farioli has described as a serious injury during Saturday's 3-0 romp past Academico de Viseu. The 29-year-old went down early in the match—just 18 minutes in—while attempting to clear the ball, and despite receiving treatment, he couldn't continue. Medical assessment suggests an adductor issue, though the full picture will only emerge once tests are complete. For betting purposes, Sanusi's absence marks a real defensive vulnerability for Porto, who've been rock-solid this season and sit top of the Portuguese league with 12 points from four wins.

The injury comes at a frustrating moment for both club and country. Sanusi had featured in every minute of Porto's title defence campaign so far and remains a cornerstone of their defensive setup. His contract situation—entering the final year of his deal—adds another layer of uncertainty, but Farioli has clearly valued him as a key player. The Dragons proved they can win without him, demolishing Viseu with goals from Andre Silva, Gabri Veiga, and William Gomes before the break, yet losing an experienced left-back mid-season is never ideal when you're chasing silverware.

For the Super Eagles, this is worse news. Nigeria's upcoming Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers kick off next month, and coach Eric Chelle will be sweating on Sanusi's recovery timeline. If rehabilitation stretches beyond the expected window, the veteran defender could miss crucial matches in the qualification push. Bettors backing Nigeria in AFCON qualifiers should be watching this situation closely—defensive depth could make the difference in tight qualifying fixtures, and losing a starter this early is never the script you want to see.

Based on original reporting by Soccernet NG. Read the original at soccernet.ng →

#Zaidu Sanusi#Porto#Super Eagles

Porto coach reveals extent of Zaidu Sanusi’s injury

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