Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after sustaining a severe knee injury that could rule him out for the remainder of the season.
Porto FC, Sanusi’s club, confirmed the unfortunate news on Sunday via their official X page, revealing that the 26-year-old has suffered damage to his left knee’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) along with a rupture of the external lateral ligament.
“The Nigerian international has a complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and the external lateral ligament of his left knee,” the club announced.
ACL injuries are known for their lengthy recovery periods, typically taking at least five to nine months for elite athletes to fully recuperate.
Sanusi’s injury comes as a significant blow both to Porto FC and the Super Eagles. The defender played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Cote d’Ivoire, where they clinched the silver medal after a hard-fought final against the hosts.
In the final match played at the Olympic Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan, on February 11, the Super Eagles faced a 2-1 defeat against the Ivorian team. Sanusi contributed to the team’s efforts, playing 86 minutes of the match before being substituted for Joe Aribo.
