Super Eagles defender and Fulham star Calvin Bassey has described Nigerian football fans as the most passionate he has ever played in front of, praising their unmatched energy and unwavering support for the national team.
Bassey, who was born in Italy to Nigerian parents before moving to England at a young age, had the option of representing three countries but chose Nigeria in 2022. Since then, the 25-year-old has become a key figure for the Super Eagles and one of Marco Silva’s most reliable players at Fulham, where he also won the club’s Player of the Season Award last year.
In a recent conversation with his club and international teammate Alex Iwobi, Bassey spoke about his journey with the national team and the unique experience of playing in front of Nigerian fans compared to those in Europe. Having featured for Rangers in Scotland and Ajax in the Netherlands, he said nothing compares to the atmosphere Nigerian supporters create.
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“I prefer the Nigerian fans; they are incredible,” Bassey said with admiration. “They arrive at least two hours before kick-off. There are fans with drums, and I’ve even seen someone bring a guitar into the stands. They paint their bodies from head to toe. They are amazing. They can be tough at times, but when we’re winning, they support us wholeheartedly. I have to respect them because they show up for every single game.”
The Fulham defender’s comments highlight the deep bond between the Super Eagles and their fan base, renowned for creating electrifying stadium atmospheres across Africa. Bassey has already experienced these moments in crucial fixtures, including Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Bassey will once again step onto the pitch in front of the green-and-white faithful when the Super Eagles face Benin Republic. For the defender, it is another chance to repay the loyalty of supporters he calls the most passionate in the world.
