FC Porto manager Francesco Farioli has confirmed that Zaidu Sanusi will be unavailable for the second-leg semifinal clash against Sporting CP in the Taça de Portugal on Wednesday.

The Super Eagles left-back was absent from Porto’s final training session on Tuesday as he continues his recovery from a fitness setback. 

Addressing the media ahead of the encounter, Farioli stated that while Martim Fernandes has regained fitness and will return to the squad, Zaidu remains sidelined.

"Martim Fernandes will return to the team," Farioli said, as quoted by Porto's official website. "Zaidu will remain out as he is still recovering."

Zaidu’s absence represents a significant setback for Porto as they seek to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit suffered at the Estádio José Alvalade. 

The 28-year-old defender has grown into a key figure for the Dragons after a slow start to the campaign, where he initially struggled for regular minutes.

Despite that early setback, the Nigerian international has enjoyed a strong resurgence, contributing one goal and two assists in 25 appearances across all competitions. 

With Porto still in contention for domestic honours, Zaidu will be eager to complete his recovery swiftly and return to action as the club intensifies its pursuit of silverware.

Adeyemi Adewale