Soccer
Nigeria Super Eagles and Fulham star Calvin Bassey. Photo by IMAGO
Fulham kicked off their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a dramatic 1-1 draw away at Brighton, thanks to a stoppage-time equaliser from Rodrigo Muniz, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Cottagers looked set for defeat after Matt O’Riley’s second-half penalty, but Marco Silva’s side snatched a point in the dying moments, extending their competitive spirit from last season.
Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi, two of Fulham’s most consistent performers in 2024/25, were once again trusted to start.
The Nigerian internationals were instrumental in the club’s strong finish to last season, which saw them secure 11th place.
Bassey, who played 35 league matches last term, and Iwobi, who remarkably featured in all 38 games, as they remain integral figures for Silva. Both were involved in Fulham’s opening encounter, though their performances drew mixed assessments.
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How did Bassey and Iwobi perform?
Bassey was deployed at left-back and stayed on for the full 90 minutes. However, his afternoon was far from smooth.
Booked inside the opening half-hour, the defender often looked vulnerable when pressed by Brighton’s wide players.
He made one clearance, two tackles, and was dribbled past once. While he touched the ball 77 times, his passing accuracy stood at 75%, with only 41 of his 55 passes finding a teammate. He did, however, connect with two of his three attempted long balls and won six of his 11 duels.
Iwobi, in contrast, was brighter and offered Fulham a creative spark. Operating in midfield, he produced three key passes, completed 18 of 24 overall, and consistently tried to push his side forward.
Four of his five long balls and crosses reached their target, while he also attempted a shot that drifted off target.
Though replaced by Adama Traoré after 66 minutes, his influence had already been noted, providing energy and intent in transition.
With Manchester United visiting Craven Cottage next weekend, Bassey and Iwobi will be eager to build on their performances and make a stronger impact.
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.
From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.
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