- Calvin Bassey, addressed his controversial goal in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against South Africa in World Cup qualifiers.
- Bassey scored the equalizer in the first half after Nigeria fell behind due to an own goal by William Troost-Ekong.
- Video replays indicated that Bassey’s goal may have involved a handball, leading to protests from South African players.
Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has finally spoken out after netting a contentious goal in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against South Africa during the World Cup qualifiers.
Bassey’s equaliser came in the first half, following an own goal by William Troost-Ekong that had put Nigeria behind. However, video replays suggested the ball may have touched Bassey’s hand before crossing the line, sparking outrage among the Bafana Bafana players.
With VAR not in use for the match, the referee allowed the goal to stand, igniting heated debates among fans across Africa.
After the match, Bassey expressed his delight at scoring his first goal for Nigeria. He shared: “Honoured to wear this shirt and score my first goal. We didn’t win, but we keep believing if anyone can do it, it is God.”
The Premier League star also revealed he intends to frame his match jersey to commemorate the achievement.
Reactions to the goal have been mixed. Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi defended the referee, noting that the absence of VAR left the official with no choice but to allow it. On the other hand, South African legend Itumeleng Khune criticized the decision, labelling it an “obvious handball,” while Bafana coach Hugo Broos claimed his team had been unfairly treated.
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Netizens’ reactions…
@allenjacksonministriesprayersec: “Why is South Africa 🇿🇦 celebrating over a home goal? 😂 If they are good why didn’t they score another goal. #SSFootball Nigeria 🇳🇬 is the best.”
@oos_life: “It’s the scrambling the commentator was talking about. Nigeria we depend on, now we saw it. They are strong, lucky and scrambling to the goals.”
@AdemulegunDO: “Daniel is out of his mind. The world agrees with me right now, the most overrated team Nigeria ever produced. These are not Super Eagles.”
Nigeria must now win their remaining two matches and hope other results go their way if they are to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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