Calvin Bassey, the defender for the Super Eagles, has expressed admiration for the fervor of Nigerian football enthusiasts, calling them the most passionate supporters he has encountered.
Since opting to represent Nigeria, Bassey made his international debut in 2022 and swiftly established himself as a vital member of the national squad.
At just 24 years old, Bassey has also cemented his role at Fulham, where he was a dependable figure under manager Marco Silva last season, earning the club’s Player of the Season accolade.
In a recent discussion with his teammate Alex Iwobi, who plays alongside him for both Fulham and Nigeria, Bassey contrasted the energy at club fixtures with the electrifying atmosphere during Super Eagles matches.
Bassey Highlights the Unrivaled Zeal of Nigerian Fans
Bassey openly acknowledged that Nigerian supporters are distinguished by their extraordinary enthusiasm and unwavering dedication.
“I definitely favor the Nigerian crowd; they’re absolutely wild,” Bassey remarked. “They show up hours before kickoff, sometimes even two hours early.”
“You’ll find fans with drums, and I’ve even spotted someone playing a guitar in the stands. Many paint their bodies from head to toe in team colors. Their passion is next level.”
“They can be tough critics if things aren’t going well, but when the team is winning, their cheers are deafening. I have immense respect for their commitment-they’re present at every match.”
These remarks underscore Bassey’s deep appreciation for the vibrant and loyal fanbase that supports the Super Eagles.
Looking ahead, the Fulham defender will once again experience the electrifying atmosphere of home support when Nigeria takes on Benin in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.