Off-field unity fueling Super Eagles’ AFCON charge – Calvin Bassey

The banter between Chukwueze and Bassey, with some tales from their English Premier League club and also in the national team, has drawn some football fans to the attention of this camp. 

On the field, Nigeria are in a cruising mode as they aim to reach back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals.  

It’s the understanding that is important to Bassey.

"Yeah, of course I mean there's a chemistry we are trying to bring to the understanding as you can see me and Alex have a great understanding and Samuel. So, we are trying to bring the understanding, the chemistry we have with our club side to here and hopefully help the team in any way we can,” Bassey said.

“Of course we were there two years ago, we believe in our ability and quality but at the end of the day we gotta take each game as it comes, that's the most important thing."

READ: Rayan Aït-Nouri: No weak links in AFCON’s last eight as Algeria push on

Bassey, born in Italy to Nigerian parents but raised in England, has also become known as a prayer warrior in the Super Eagles camp. 

The 26-year-old centre back has also praised the gesture of the Fulham fans, who have travelled all the way from England to come support him, Iwobi, Chukwueze and the Super Eagles.

"Of course, I mean for them to be here and we thank them and we thank the support. I can't really put it into words right now, it would be unbelievable, I know last time I was there in the final, it didn't go our way but just being in the final, the emotion is just amazing and unbelievable,” he added.

“It's more giving thanks, God did his part and he also put pressure on me to do my part and I tried to do my part in the best way possible and just thankful to be here."