Calvin Bassey hits 100 Premier League games: Ranking Super Eagles star’s best five moments

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has reached a major milestone in his Fulham career, making his 100th Premier League appearance in the Cottagers’ 2-1 defeat to Ipswich Town.

Since joining Fulham from Ajax in July 2023, Bassey has developed into a key figure in the club’s defence.

His journey has included important goals, impressive performances against top opponents and recognition from some of the Premier League’s most dangerous attackers, and eventually, the Cottagers captain band, highlighting how much he’s grown.

As the Nigerian celebrates his century of appearances, Afrik-Foot looks at five standout moments from his Premier League journey.

Calvin Bassey’s top 5 Premier League moments

1. Bassey announces himself with a goal at Old Trafford

One of Bassey’s most memorable early moments came on February 24, 2024, when Fulham travelled to face Manchester United.

He’d only just returned from Nigeria’s disappointing loss to Ivory Coast in the AFCON 2023 final, where he was included in the team of the tournament.

The defender opened the scoring in the 2-1 victory, reacting quickest to a rebound in the 65th minute to put the visitors ahead.

#PL 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 : Manchester United cède face à Fulham ! Calvin Bassey 🇳🇬 récompense la domination outrageuse des Cottagers 🔥 https://t.co/re1Q1KPlwY

— CANAL+ SPORT Afrique (@cplussportafr) February 24, 2024

Harry Maguire equalised in the 89th minute for United, but Alex Iwobi scored a 97th-minute winner to give Fulham their first victory at Old Trafford since 2003.

It was Bassey’s maiden Premier League goal, and it was special because it came in a memorable away win against one of English football’s biggest clubs.

2. He keeps Erling Haaland quiet against Manchester City

Bassey produced another impressive display when Fulham visited Manchester City in October 2024.

Although Fulham lost 3-2, the Nigerian defender earned praise for his work against Haaland, who failed to score in the encounter.

Former Netherlands international Ron Vlaar highlighted Bassey’s contribution, saying the defender had made a major impact in limiting the Norwegian striker’s threat.

“He made a huge impact in shutting out Haaland,” Vlaar said, crediting Bassey and his defensive partner Joachim Andersen.

The result went against the Cottagers, but the performance showed that Bassey could stand up to elite opposition even when his team did not get the result it wanted.

3. Haaland recognises Bassey’s strength

The Manchester City striker would eventually relish his physical duel with the Nigerian.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast after City’s thrilling 5-4 win over Fulham in December 2025, the Norwegian discussed the physical demands of the Premier League compared with German football, before singling out the Nigerian defender.

“It’s more about duels, about contact,” the Norwegian explained.

“It’s incredible. When you play against Bassey, you know. How strong is he?”

Haaland’s comments were a notable endorsement of Bassey’s physical attributes from a striker who regularly battles some of the best defenders in Europe.

The praise also reflected the demanding nature of Fulham’s contests with City, where Bassey combines strength with positioning and concentration against elite attackers.

4. Bassey’s physical dominance stands out against Tottenham

Bassey’s development has also been evident in his performances against Tottenham Hotspur.

In March 2025, Fulham beat Spurs 2-0, with the Nigerian defender producing a commanding display.

One act in particular stood out. Bassey shrugged off Djed Spence, held off Cristian Romero and carried the ball forward, leaving both opponents struggling to cope with his strength, creating the popular ‘meuve man’ meme.

5. Bassey marshals Fulham’s defence at Anfield

The most recent standout performances came against Liverpool last month.

Wearing the captain’s armband, the Nigerian played the full 90 minutes as Fulham secured a goalless draw at Anfield.

Bassey helped frustrate Liverpool’s attack, winning all three of his ground duels and recording five clearances, one interception and three recoveries.

The result gave Fulham their first Premier League point of the season and offered another example of Bassey’s growing responsibility within the team.

A milestone that reflects Bassey’s growth

Bassey’s 100 Premier League appearances represent more than a numerical landmark. They tell the story of a defender who has had to adapt, learn from difficult moments and establish himself in one of the world’s most physically demanding leagues.

From scoring at Old Trafford to earning Haaland’s respect and helping shut Liverpool out, the Nigeria international has provided several reminders of his quality.