As the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 tournament kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, December 21, a compelling personal story adds a unique layer to Nigeria's campaign. The Super Eagles' new number 10, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, is set to receive powerful home-ground support from his wife, the stunning Moroccan model Nada Bensounaa.
Dele-Bashiru Steps Into Legendary Jersey With Personal Cheerleader
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, the 24-year-old Lazio midfielder, is poised for his AFCON debut wearing the iconic No. 10 shirt, a jersey historically worn by Nigerian greats like Austin Jay-Jay Okocha and John Mikel Obi. The weight of national expectation rests on his shoulders, but the player will have a significant source of motivation in the stands. His wife, Nada Bensounaa, will be cheering for Nigeria in her home country, providing a unique emotional boost for the midfielder.
A Private Union: The Marriage of Dele-Bashiru and Bensounaa
The couple tied the knot earlier this year in a private ceremony attended only by close family and friends. While the exact date and location were not publicly disclosed, reports indicate they met in 2024 and decided to marry a year later. Bensounaa shared glimpses of their special day on her Instagram story, posting a photo where she wore a beautiful Moroccan Caftan and Dele-Bashiru dressed in native attire.
She captioned the image "Alhamdulillah" (Thank God), followed by a ring emoji. Shortly after, she confirmed their eternal bond with another post stating, "Fi Dunya wa fil Akhirah," which translates to "in this world and the Hereafter." This heartfelt declaration underscored the depth of their commitment.
Who Is Nada Bensounaa, The Model Behind The Super Eagle?
Nada Bensounaa is a professional model currently signed to the UK-based Muse modelling agency. She has cultivated a growing social media presence, with over 4,960 followers on Instagram, where she regularly shares photos from her modelling shoots. Her support for Dele-Bashiru's career has been constant, from attending his club matches in Europe to celebrating his national team call-ups. She was even spotted with him at Lazio's Christmas party in December 2024.
Now, at AFCON 2025, her role evolves into that of a crucial pillar of support, even as it means rooting for Nigeria against her homeland. This dynamic is expected to provide Dele-Bashiru with an extra layer of inspiration as he navigates the pressures of the tournament.
On the pitch, Dele-Bashiru has made 10 appearances for the Super Eagles since his debut in 2023, scoring two goals. One of those goals came in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa. Coach Eric Chelle, who handed him the legendary shirt, has expressed the team's high ambitions for the tournament. Nigeria finds itself in Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda.
As the football world focuses on the action in Morocco, the story of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Nada Bensounaa reminds fans that behind every jersey number is a human story, and for Nigeria's new number 10, that story is one of love, cross-cultural support, and high-stakes football.
