ABUJA – The Super Eagles camp has been buoyed by high spirits and playful banter following a light-hearted exchange between Samuel Chukwueze and Calvin Bassey.
Chukwueze was captured on camera jokingly “berating” his teammate on the team bus on Monday, following a recent incident involving their club side, Fulham. The AC Milan-turned-Fulham winger took aim at the defender over a missed opportunity that occurred just before they departed for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
A Missed Opportunity in London
Chukwueze has enjoyed an impressive start to his tenure at Craven Cottage, racking up two goals and four assists in his first nine outings. However, the former Villarreal star is convinced his tally should be higher, and he holds Bassey responsible.
In Fulham’s final fixture before the international break, Bassey embarked on a marauding run from deep, weaving his way into the opposition penalty area. Despite having the goal at his mercy, the defender fluffed his lines, miskicking the ball and sending his effort well wide of the target.
Chukwueze, who was unmarked and in a prime position to score, was left frustrated after Bassey opted for a solo effort rather than squaring the ball for a simple tap-in.
Banter in the Eagles’ Nest
The incident has since become a running joke between the two close friends. Following a training session on Monday, Chukwueze continued his playful “tirade” on the national team bus, calling out Bassey for his perceived selfishness.
“He is killing me,” Chukwueze joked to his teammates, pointing towards the defender while recounting the story.
The exchange highlights the positive atmosphere within the Nigerian squad as they prepare for their continental campaign. Far from a genuine rift, the “selfish” accusations are purely part of the jovial energy the duo have brought from West London to the Super Eagles’ camp.
