New Lazio signing Fisayo Dele-Bashiru got his first taste of action for the club on Sunday, scoring a brace as well as an assist during their 23-0 crushing of ninth-tier side CS Auronzo in a pre-season friendly.
Dele-Bashiru as well as other new signings came on during the second half of the game and impressed in 45 minutes.
He played in an advanced midfield role behind striker Tijjani Noslin with Loum Tchaouna and Sana Fernandes on his sides in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Lazio tested out the set up with Noslin and Tchaouna scoring a hat-trick each.
The Aquile are working in their traditional Auronzo di Cadore training camp in the mountains to get away from the stifling heat of the Italian summer.
It’s the second time Lazio will beat the ninth-tier side in the space of five days. The first one ended in a 21-0 defeat four days ago but the Nigerian didn’t feature.
The Super Eagles midfielder joined Lazio from Hatayspor on a season-long loan, with an obligation to buy if he impresses.
The 23-year-old shone in the Turkish Super Lig last season, scoring nine goals and providing six assists.
He recently made his debut for the Super Eagles, scoring against South Africa in a World Cup qualifier, further enhancing his reputation.
Reports suggest that Lazio secured the talented midfielder for an initial loan fee of around €2m, with a further €4m to be paid to make the deal permanent if certain conditions are met.
The total deal, including potential add-ons, could rise to €7m, showcasing Lazio’s commitment to integrating young talent into their squad.
Dele-Bashiru joins a notable list of Nigerian players who have donned the Lazio jersey. Ogenyi Onazi, Stephen Makinwa, Seyi Adeleke, and Daniel Ola have all had spells with the Italian club, with Onazi being the most prominent, making 110 appearances and scoring seven goals between 2012 and 2016.
