Calvin Bassey, a Nigeria international and Fulham defender, recently shared insight into the moment that influenced his decision to represent Nigeria over England at the international football level. Speaking to Sky Sports, Bassey recalled a memorable encounter between Nigeria and Argentina during the 2018 World Cup, where he was captivated by Lionel Messi’s exceptional performance that ultimately swayed his allegiance. Despite Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat, Bassey expressed admiration for both Messi’s “outrageous” goal and the resilience exhibited by the Nigerian team, which solidified his desire to play for the Super Eagles.
Born in Italy to Nigerian parents and later relocating to England, Bassey’s footballing journey allowed him eligibility to represent multiple nations, including Kenya. However, in 2021, he chose to commit to Nigeria after receiving a call-up for the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. He made his debut in a match against Ghana that ended in a draw, marking the beginning of his international career. Despite his upbringing in England, Bassey’s heart was moved during Nigeria’s last group-stage game against Argentina in 2018, setting the course for his future in international football.
The match that left a lasting impression on Bassey showcased Messi’s brilliance as he scored the opening goal with a stunning sequence: he expertly controlled a long ball with his knee, used his left foot to evade a defender, and unleashed a powerful shot with his right foot, beating Nigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho. Despite Nigeria’s hopes of advancing in the tournament, the outcome of the match was a heartbreaker; however, Bassey felt a surge of pride for the Nigerian squad, witnessing their collective spirit and determination in the face of adversity.
This pivotal moment during the clash not only highlighted Messi’s genius but also reflected the tenacity of the Nigerian team, which resonated deeply with Bassey. He admired the way his future compatriots fought valiantly despite the setback, reinforcing his connection to Nigeria and motivating him to embody that same fighting spirit if given the chance to represent the nation on an international stage. As a young athlete with ambitions to succeed, Bassey felt inspired to align himself with a team characterized by resilience and passion.
Since making his international debut in 2022, Bassey has emerged as a crucial player for the Super Eagles, participating in 28 matches and helping the squad reach the finals of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) earlier this year, where they secured a silver medal. His journey represents not only personal growth as a footballer but also highlights the importance of cultural and emotional ties in shaping an athlete’s identity and choices. Wearing the Nigerian jersey has become a source of pride for Bassey, allowing him to contribute to a national cause that resonates deeply with him.
Bassey’s story underscores the profound impact that sports figures, like Lionel Messi, can have on young athletes, guiding their decisions and aspirations. The midfielder’s passion for representing Nigeria is a testament to the powerful combination of individual talent and national pride, showcasing how football transcends borders and forges connections between people and their heritage. Through his experiences, Bassey exemplifies the dynamic nature of international football, where players navigate personal histories while embracing opportunities to represent their countries on the world stage.
