Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey has revealed how Lionel Messi’s magical moments on the field inspired him to play for the Super Eagles.
Bassey was raised in England but was born to Nigerian parents in Italy.
The Fulham star had the opportunity to represent any of the three countries internationally.
But he opted to play for Nigeria after watching Messi score a goal against Nigeria in the group stage of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia.
“When Nigeria played Argentina, they lost 2-1, but it was a good match. “Messi, of course – Messi is Messi, actually – scored that outrageous goal.” Bassey told Sky Sports (via Afrik-Foot).
“I think it was the knee, the foot and then the right foot. It was the best. But for me that was more of a motivation to want to play for Nigeria and also play on the big stage.”
<
