Calvin Bassey: Super Eagles Still Have Goals Despite Semi-Final Heartbreak

Published on: 17 January 2026

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has urged fans to remain optimistic as Nigeria prepares to face Egypt in the third-place playoff of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria suffered a 4-2 penalty shootout defeat to Morocco in the semi-finals in Rabat on Wednesday, but Bassey insists the squad still has plenty to play for. The Fulham defender highlighted the team’s unity and determination following the loss.

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“We thank God in all situations. A gutting way to end the tournament. The support & togetherness we’ve felt has been special. Sorry, we couldn’t take it all the way; we fought and gave it our all. We’ll build on this. Not finished yet, though, we still have something to push for,” Bassey wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

The third-place match kicks off at 5pm Nigeria time at the Mohammed V Sports Complex, Casablanca. Bassey, however, will miss the game due to suspension.

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