He's sharp and tricky - Calvin 'Maldini' Bassey praises exceptional Super Eagles teammate

Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey has praised teammate Ademola Lookman for his well-rounded game ahead of their AFCON semifinal against South Africa. 

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that the Bafana Bafana will take on their counterparts from Nigeria, the Super Eagles, in an explosive clash on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old Lookman has shone like a star for Nigeria at the 34th AFCON, leading the chart with three goals in five matches for the Super Eagles. 

But beyond Lookman's goals, his teammate Bassey has come out to highlight his work rate, tracking back and defensive contributions as key traits that have set him apart. 

Speaking to The Athletic, the 24-year-old described Lookman as "sharp" and “tricky” while labeling him as the Super Eagles' "star boy" at the AFCON 2023. 

The Fulham defender noted that Lookman's intensity in training, with particular focus on the winger's all-around game, work ethic and emergence as Nigeria's current star performer.

“Mola’s sharp, man,”  Bassey stated. “He is the star boy. He is a baller, but take away his goals and look at the work rate. He tracks back, same as all of our attackers, and that’s the foundation which sets him apart from other players on different teams.

 The defender, who has been likened to Italian great, Paolo Maldini, by Nigerians, also stated further that the Atalanta star keeps the Super Eagles squad sharp with his tricks and finishing ability.

“I’ve been lucky we’ve been on the same team (in training).” he added. “He’s hard, he is tricky. He is not going to let you go easy. It’s a good challenge. It keeps me and all of us on our toes.”

Lookman's impact on both ends of the pitch has made him a key player in Nigeria's AFCON success.

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