Rangers defender Calvin Bassey earned himself plenty of plaudits in the second half of last season at centre-back.
However, he received a mixed response while being given a run-out in the position for the first time by Nigeria.
Bassey thrived alongside Connor Goldson last season, playing a key role in reaching the Europa League Final and claiming the Scottish Cup.
The Super Eagles cruised to victory in the AFCON qualifier against Sao Tome and Principe – recording the biggest victory in the national team’s history with a 10-0 demolition.
Bassey started at the heart of the defence before being replaced by former Rangers man Leon Balogun in the second half.
Despite the clean sheet in the convincing win, the Aston Villa and Wolves-linked star only earned a 6/10 from Goal.
They commented: "Played alongside Ajayi at centre-back and had little to do defensively.
"The Rangers man’s passing was intermittently errant but he never stopped trying and carried the ball aggressively upfield at times."
There was also praise for goalkeeper Francis Ozoho after an mistake late in the clash from Bassey.
The report added: "(He) Spared Calvin Bassey’s blushes early in the second half by rushing off his line to prevent Sao Tome and Principe from a consolation strike."
However, Pulse Sports offered a more favourable review with their 7/10 rating, noting: "Another solid outing by the youngster, who replaced the injured William Troost-Ekong at centre back."
Peter Etobo was also lauded in Goal as he came into the side for Joe Aribo, as it was deemed "too risky" to field the Rangers playmaker despite facing lower-ranked opposition.
Speaking on the Stoke loanee, they state: "He made crucial interceptions and often covered for Calvin Bassey whenever the Rangers defender made aggressive runs upfield."
