Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has hailed Calvin Bassey as the standout central defender of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Fulham defender featured in all of Nigeria’s matches at the tournament and was one of the team’s most consistent performers. His commanding presence at the back helped the Super Eagles keep three consecutive clean sheets during the competition.
Bassey’s AFCON campaign, however, ended prematurely after he received his second yellow card in Nigeria’s semi-final loss to hosts Morocco, which was decided on penalties. The 26-year-old will therefore miss the third-place playoff against Egypt.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the bronze medal clash, Chelle praised Bassey’s growth and influence within the squad, describing his performances as exceptional. The coach noted that Bassey improved with each game and gradually emerged as a leader in the team.
“From one match to another, he kept raising his level,” Chelle said. “At this AFCON, he was outstanding. He did an incredible job.”
Chelle also revealed that he has a personal understanding with Bassey, constantly pushing him to improve both for club and country. “If I’m asked to name the best centre-back at this AFCON, I’ll choose Calvin Bassey,” he said. “We have an agreement that he must continue improving every time he plays, whether for Nigeria or Fulham. He works hard every day, not just on the pitch, and that’s why he has become a leader in this team.”
Nigeria will face Egypt in the third-place playoff on Saturday at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, with kickoff scheduled for 5 p.m. Nigerian time.
