Nigerian international Victor Osimhen has eulogized his compatriot Calvin Bassey as the best African defender at the moment, while including him in his ultimate Nigerian five-a-side team.
Osimhen, who plies his trade for Galatasaray opted for Fulham defender Calvin Bassey as his sole pick from the Super Eagles squad, lavishing praise on the centre-back and hailing him as Africa’s standout defender.
Osimhen’s choice reflects the strong impression Bassey made during Nigeria’s recent Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
Both players were among Nigeria’s top performers at the tournament, helping the Super Eagles finish third overall and earning spots in the AFCON Team of the Tournament. Explaining his decision, Osimhen left no room for doubt about his admiration for the Fulham man.
“At the back, I will have Bassey, 100%,” he said. “One of the best, or the best defender in Africa at the moment.”
With goalkeepers excluded from the format, Osimhen turned to Nigeria’s rich football history to complete his side. He packed the midfield with legendary figures John Mikel Obi, Nwankwo Kanu and Austin ‘JJ’ Okocha, combining steel, creativity and flair. Leading the line in attack is former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo, rounding off a five-a-side team that blends modern excellence with iconic Nigerian football greatness.
