Amid the disappointment of Nigeria’s semi‑final exit, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has singled out defender Calvin Bassey for exceptional praise, naming him the best centre‑back at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Key Points:
- Coach Eric Chelle declared Calvin Bassey the best centre‑back at AFCON 2025.
- Bassey started every match and helped Nigeria keep three consecutive clean sheets.
- He received a second yellow card in the semi‑final and will miss the third‑place match against Egypt.
- Chelle said Bassey was “crazy” and improved with each game.
- The coach revealed a personal agreement with Bassey to make him “among the best centre‑backs in the world” by next season.
- Bassey has emerged as a defensive leader for both Nigeria and his club, Fulham.
- Nigeria will face Egypt for third place on Saturday in Casablanca.
Sources: Complete Sports, Soccernet
