Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has spoken about his match-day routine and mindset as Nigeria prepare for their Round of 16 encounter against Mozambique at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Lazio star, who has featured in two matches and provided one assist in the tournament, offered insight into his preparation, touching on nutrition, music, prayer, and personal habits ahead of games.

Speaking on his match-day diet, Dele-Bashiru explained the importance of managing his meals in the build-up to kick-off.

He told Pooja: “Before I have pasta and chicken and then but this is like the day before or the day I try and eat as light as possible. When we have snacks 3 hours before the match, I'll just have like fruit and some toast with Nutella.”

The midfielder highlighted a balanced approach, focusing on lighter options closer to match time.

On the role of music in his pre-match routine, Dele-Bashiru revealed that he does not rely on a specific genre or artist for motivation. He said: “Not any specific music. I just like to listen to music before before matches.”

The comment underlined a relaxed but focused approach as he prepares mentally for games.

Faith also forms part of the 24-year-old’s preparation. When asked whether he prays before matches or simply steps onto the pitch to perform, Dele-Bashiru confirmed the place of prayer in his routine, saying: “Yeah, I pray also before matches.”

The midfielder also addressed the topic of superstitions, particularly the common habit among players of wearing a particular boot first.

Dele-Bashiru admitted that this used to be part of his routine but has since changed.

He explained: “I used to wear the right first and then the left, but recently I don't know, I've stopped. I don't know why.”

Asked if he has any other special rituals before match day, Dele-Bashiru was clear in his response.

He said: “no, unfortunately. It used to be the right boot on then left, but now no, nothing. I just mind on the game and play.”

Nigeria will be seeking to maintain their impressive form at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations when they face Mozambique on Monday, with a place in the quarter-final at stake.

Wale Adejumo