Super Eagles star speaks out after missing crucial penalty in heartbreaking defeat to DR Congo

Fulham defender Calvin Bassey has opened up after missing a crucial penalty in Nigeria’s heartbreaking loss to DR Congo in the World Cup qualifying playoff final. 

The 25-year-old, who played a key defensive role throughout the tense match in Rabat, revealed how the moment continues to weigh heavily on him.

The Super Eagles opened strongly, taking an early lead through a deflected shot from Frank Onyeka, and maintained pressure despite the Leopards equalising just before halftime. 

Star striker Victor Osimhen’s injury shortly after limited Nigeria’s offensive firepower, but the team fought bravely to take the contest to penalties.

Bassey was the first to step up in the shootout but sent his penalty wide over the bar, setting a difficult tone. 

DR Congo eventually secured a 4-3 shootout victory, shattering Nigeria’s hopes of avoiding the dreaded consecutive World Cup misses.

In a heartfelt message on Snapchat, Bassey expressed pride in the team’s effort despite the disappointment. 

“We did everything we could. We gotta keep our heads held high, we go again at AFCON.”

Known for his composure and consistency, Bassey was among Nigeria’s standout performers throughout the campaign, featuring in every qualifier match. 

His missed penalty was a rare slip amid an otherwise strong showing, across two matches in the WCQ Playoffs.

With Nigeria now focused on rebuilding and preparing for AFCON 2025 next, Bassey’s honest reflection shows the emotional toll of such high-stakes moments but also the determination within the squad to bounce back.

The defender is set to face DR Congo rival Noah Sadiki again soon at club level, as Fulham meet Sunderland in the Premier League, a clash loaded with added significance following their international duel.