Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has finally settled one of football's hottest debates by naming the toughest striker he has ever faced between his Nigerian teammate Victor Osimhen and Manchester City's goal machine Erling Haaland.
Bassey's Verdict on Two Elite Strikers
In an exclusive interview with Stadium Astro, the Fulham defender shared his experience facing both world-class forwards. Bassey declared Osimhen as the most difficult opponent, though he was quick to acknowledge Haaland's exceptional qualities.
"Of course, they are different, they are both strong, very fast, and you always have to be on guard because at any time they can hurt you," Bassey explained. "They are one of the players who take a lot out of you physically, so you always have to be ready."
Experience Against Both Players
According to ESPN statistics, Bassey has faced Osimhen for only 40 minutes during Napoli's 4-2 victory over Ajax in the UEFA Champions League back in December 2022. However, he has encountered Haaland multiple times since both players arrived in the English Premier League during the summer of 2022.
When pressed to choose who was easier to play against, Bassey responded: "I can't say. You can say it's bias, but I'm going to say Osimhen is the hardest, but Haaland is not easy as well. They are both at the same level, they are both hard to come up against."
Osimhen's Premier League Ambitions
The defender also shed light on Osimhen's interest in playing in the Premier League before his move to Galatasaray. Top English clubs including Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United had expressed strong interest in signing the Nigerian striker during last summer's transfer window.
"Yes, of course, he doesn't give too much away, but he said he's interested in the Premier League, it's a good league, the most watched in the world," Bassey revealed. "Most players would want to come to the Premier League and experience it. Obviously, he's at a massive club now, and he's doing amazing."
Interestingly, Osimhen was recently rated above Haaland on Sports Pro's list of the most marketable athletes in the world for 2024, with the Super Eagles star securing 44th position globally while the Norwegian followed closely in 45th place.
