Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey expressed strong optimism about Nigeria's chances of clinching the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco, emphasizing the squad's depth, talent, and renewed hunger for success.
The Fulham star, speaking ahead of the tournament set for January 2026, highlighted the team's blend of experienced stars like Victor Osimhen and emerging talents, insisting they possess the quality to end Nigeria's 11-year wait since their last triumph in 2013. Bassey pointed to recent friendlies and qualifiers as proof of growing cohesion under coach José Peseiro's successor, urging fans to rally behind the three-time champions.
Bassey acknowledged past heartbreaks, including the 2021 final loss to Senegal on penalties, but stressed lessons learned have forged a resilient unit ready to dominate Group stages against Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, and Equatorial Guinea.
He praised the Nigeria Football Federation's preparations, from high-altitude training camps to injury management, positioning the Super Eagles as favorites alongside hosts Morocco and Egypt. The defender called for national unity, vowing the team would deliver joy and pride on the continental stage.