Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey is confident Nigeria can carry their impressive group-stage form into the knockout rounds of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria wrapped up the group stage with a convincing 3–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday, finishing top of their group with a perfect nine points from three matches. Eric Chelle’s side will now face Mozambique in the Round of 16 as they continue their push for the AFCON title.
Speaking after the match, Bassey stressed that the team remains focused and hungry despite already securing qualification before the final group game.
“Same energy. We’ve shown our quality in this group stage, and hopefully we can just keep building on this momentum,” he told Sporty TV.
The Fulham defender explained that the players approached the Uganda game with full commitment, seeing it as more than just a formality.
“This game was very important for us. Some people might think, ‘we’re already through,’ but for us, it was a chance to make a statement and show that no matter who we play, we’ll always give 100 per cent,” he said.
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Nigeria have been impressive going forward, scoring eight goals in three group matches — their best group-stage return at AFCON in recent tournaments — with five different players getting on the scoresheet. However, defensive solidity remains an area to improve, as the Super Eagles conceded four goals and failed to keep a clean sheet in Group C.
Bassey will be eager to help tighten the defence as Nigeria heads into the decisive knockout phase of the competition.
