How Messi Inspired Me To Choose Nigeria Over England – Super Eagles Star, Bassey

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 in Russia.

Calvin Bassey, the Nigerian defender, has disclosed how Lionel Messi’s magical moments on the pitch inspired him to play for the Super Eagles.

Bassey was brought up in England but was born to Nigerian parents in Italy.

The Fulham star had a chance to represent either 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 in Russia.

“When Nigeria played Argentina, they lost 2-1 but it was a good game. Messi, of course – Messi is Messi innit – he scored that outrageous goal,” Bassey told Sky Sports (via Afrik-Foot).

“I think it was knee, foot, then right foot. It was top. But that was more of motivation to me to want to play for Nigeria and also play on the big stage.”