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Super Eagles defenders Calvin Bassey and winger Samuel Chukwueze have cautioned against underestimating any opponent, insisting the team must remain focused and disciplined as the tournament progresses.
Bassey pointed to recent results as evidence of how unpredictable football can be, stressing that reputations alone do not win matches.
“You can’t underestimate any team,” Bassey said. “Look at Saturday’s game — Tunisia had 11 men, Mali had 10 men and they still took it all the way to penalties. That shows how dangerous every opponent can be.”
Despite Nigeria’s star-studded squad on paper, the Fulham defender emphasized that the team’s priority is executing their game plan.
“Of course, on paper we have the big names, but we’re focusing on ourselves and making sure we do everything right,” he added. “That’s the most important thing for us.”
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Bassey also highlighted the importance of defensive organization and attention to detail, revealing that keeping clean sheets is a constant discussion among the backline.
“As a centre-back, you always want a clean sheet,” he said. “It’s something me and Semi talk about a lot — organizing, communicating. Most goals come from little details: one step, one moment. We just have to make sure we cut those out as we go into the next stages.”
Chukwueze, meanwhile, praised the team’s mindset and depth, describing a calm and united squad ready for any challenge.
“We are very calm. We know where we come from and we know we are ready to face anything,” the AC Milan winger said. “It doesn’t matter who starts or comes off the bench — everybody is ready to give everything.”
Both players stressed that Nigeria’s strength lies in collective effort, from attack to defence, as the Super Eagles continue their push forward in the competition.
