Tremendous Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi has returned to first-team motion for Portuguese giants FC Porto, 325 days after he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) harm, Soccernet.ng studies.
Sanusi was compelled off within the thirty second minute of Porto’s Primeira Liga sport in opposition to Estrela Amadora in February 2024. Sadly for him, it was later confirmed to be an ACL harm. That harm stored him out of soccer till October 2024.
Nonetheless, he couldn’t return to first-team motion as a result of his lack of match health. Therefore, he needed to spend the concluding a part of final yr with Porto’s second string crew.
The 27-year-old defender has made Porto’s matchday squad twice within the UEFA Europa League this season, however he didn’t get minutes.
Nonetheless, he acquired his breakthrough on Tuesday, in Porto’s League Cup semi-final tie in opposition to Sporting CP. The Tremendous Eagles star began from the bench, however coach Vitor Bruno launched him within the 61st minute, 4 minutes after Viktor Gyokeres scored the opener.
Sanusi put up a formidable efficiency for Porto, as he registered 27 touches, one dribble, and one key passes. He even created one massive alternative, however Porto didn’t put it to use. The sport finally ended 1-0 in Sporting CP’s favour.
For Sanusi, despite the fact that his facet misplaced, he can be elated at enjoying his first top-flight sport since February 2024.
What subsequent for Zaidu Sanusi?
The Tremendous Eagles star’s future continues to be protected for now, as his contract at Porto runs till 2027. However proper now, he can be centered on convincing coach Vitor Bruno that he deserves a spot within the beginning eleven.
On the worldwide scene, he’ll hope to carry out effectively sufficient and collect some momentum to get a call-up to the nationwide crew quickly.
The final time Sanusi performed for Nigeria was on the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast final yr, the place he helped the crew to second place.
Kelvin Omachonu
Kelvin Omachonu is a author with a few years of expertise protecting sports activities occasions in Nigeria and overseas. He’s fueled by his love for the job, and is devoted to delivering fascinating tales.
