Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey has finally aired his feelings about African football after making his official Super Eagles debut in Kamusi on Friday.
Last weekend, Calvin Bassey made his Eagles debut in a World Cup playoff match against Ghana’s Black Stars, coming on as a 74th-minute sub to relieve Zaidu Sanusi.
Bassey only saw action for the Eagles for 16 minutes in a goalless draw at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.
The 22-year-old described African football as being more physical, adding that he has to learn to adjust to the environment, the pitch and the weather as well.
While speaking after the first leg of the World Cup playoffs, Calvin Bassey said;
“It was an honour to represent this great nation. Playing in Africa is a lot more physical, it’s just adjusting to the environment, the pitch and the weather. It’s harder to breathe so it’s just adjusting to it.”
Bassey’s Rangers teammates – Leon Balogun and Joe Aribo are also in the Nigeria squad.
Both started against Ghana and the defender admitted it has made things easier having more familiar faces.
“The reception has been amazing. I’ve known some of the boys for quite a while and they are all welcoming. They are a good bunch of boys with experience that I can learn from.” Bassey said.