Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has issued a stern warning to his Nigerian teammates as they prepare for a critical Africa Cup of Nations knockout match. The three-time champions are set to face the Mambas of Mozambique in the Round of 16 at the Complexe Sportif de Fes in Morocco on January 5, 2026.
Bassey's Cautious Message to Favourites Nigeria
In a viral social media post, the Fulham star acknowledged that while Nigeria are the favourites on paper, they must avoid complacency. Bassey stressed that the team is taking every necessary measure to secure victory and book a quarterfinal spot in the 35th edition of the continental tournament.
"We can’t underestimate any team," Bassey warned, referencing an earlier shock result in the competition. "Look at yesterday's game: Tunisia had 11 men while Mali had 10 men; they beat them." He emphasized that having big names in the squad means nothing if the execution is flawed.
The former Ajax defender revealed that the team's focus is squarely on themselves, ensuring they do everything right and execute the game plan perfectly. He also disclosed that the squad has been practising penalties, preparing for the possibility of a draw after full time. "It doesn't matter how much you practice here. I can have 500 penalties here and score, but when you are in the game under pressure, that is what really matters," he stated, highlighting the difference between training and match-day pressure.
Defensive Focus: Aiming for a Clean Sheet
Bassey, who partners with Semi Ajayi in central defence, expressed a strong desire to stop conceding goals. Despite Nigeria's unbeaten run in the group stage, they let in goals in all three matches against Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda, even while scoring eight times.
The former Rangers star attributed the conceded goals to minor lapses in communication and organization. "It’s something me and Semi we talk about," he said regarding organizing the backline. "If you look at most of the games, it’s just little details, little communications and one step."
He praised the team's collective effort, noting how the attackers have been helping the defence when under pressure. "The defence starts from the boys in front. They have been doing amazing," Bassey commended, while insisting there are small details to improve upon as they enter the crucial knockout phase.
The Road to Redemption
This AFCON campaign carries extra weight for the Super Eagles, who missed out on qualification for a second consecutive FIFA World Cup. The team, under coach Eric Chelle, is now fully focused on claiming a fourth continental title to redeem the nation's football pride.
Striker Paul Onuachu has previously echoed this sentiment, stating the squad's determination to win the tournament. The match against Mozambique represents the first major hurdle in the knockout stages. A victory would see Nigeria advance to the quarterfinals, keeping their dream of lifting the trophy alive.
All eyes will be on the Super Eagles to see if they can translate Bassey's warnings and their evident preparation into a commanding performance against the Mambas.
