FC Porto left-back Zaidu suffered a right thigh muscle injury during his team's 3-0 victory against Académico de Viseu at the Estádio do Fontelo on Saturday.
The Nigerian international complained of physical discomfort early in the fourth-round I Liga fixture and was substituted in the 17th minute, with defender Martim Fernandes coming on to replace him.
FC Porto confirmed in an official statement on their website that Zaidu suffered an injury to his right adductor. The Portuguese champions added that the defender will undergo complementary diagnostic tests to determine the full extent of the injury and estimate how long he will be sidelined.
Speaking in his post-match flash interview, FC Porto head coach Francesco Farioli admitted that the defender's physical condition looked serious.
Zaidu injury and Porto substitutions
Zaidu was not the only Porto player forced off during Saturday's match in Viseu. Defenders Jan Bednarek and Alberto Costa also had to leave the field during the game after sustaining physical problems of their own.
The trio add to growing fitness concerns for the Portuguese title holders. FC Porto confirmed that Bednarek and Costa are expected to join existing injury absentees Oskar Pietuszewski and Samu on the club's official medical bulletin.
An adductor muscle injury involves damage to the tendon or muscle group located along the inner thigh. These muscles are essential for stabilizing the pelvis and executing lateral movements, passing, and accelerating on the pitch. Recovery from moderate to severe adductor strains typically requires several weeks of targeted rest and physical therapy.
FC Porto squad depth and medical report
Zaidu Sanusi, born in Nigeria, has established himself as a key member of FC Porto's defensive line since joining the club. Known for his pace and stamina along the left flank, the full-back has also represented the Nigerian national team in international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.
His replacement in Viseu, Martim Fernandes, is one of Porto's versatile young defenders, capable of operating across the defensive backline. Head coach Francesco Farioli, who took charge of Porto to build on their national championship success, now faces tactical adjustments as key defenders enter treatment.
Porto's medical staff will assess both Jan Bednarek, the experienced defender, and Alberto Costa over the coming days. Forward Samu and young prospect Oskar Pietuszewski remain sidelined as they continue their respective rehabilitation programs.
I Liga fixture and season context
The match took place at the Estádio do Fontelo, the municipal stadium located in Viseu, Central Portugal, which serves as the home venue for Académico de Viseu. Porto controlled the fourth-round encounter, securing a 3-0 win to maintain their strong domestic campaign in the top-flight I Liga.
FC Porto and rivals Sporting CP also face major European commitments this season, with potential fixtures against top English Premier League sides on the horizon as both Portuguese clubs compete on multiple fronts.
Porto's technical staff will monitor Zaidu's upcoming test results before making further announcements regarding his return date to competitive action.
