Rangers star Calvin Bassey made his Nigeria debut on Friday evening against Ghana in the African World Cup play off first leg as the two sides drew 0-0 which leaves the tie wide open.
Bassey came off the bench for the Super Eagles during the match as fellow Ibrox stars Joe Aribo and Leon Balogun started as a bore draw leaving everything to play for ahead of the second leg.
It has been a whirlwind 18 months for the Rangers star, having been utilised as a deputy for Borna Barisic at left-back last season, he has come into his own this campaign. Although instead of featuring on the left, Gio has had to play him at the heart of the defence, and he has excelled.
Rangers Calvin Bassey makes Nigeria debut and targets a World Cup spot
This cap will surely prove to be the first of many for the 22-year-old and if he continues his excellent form for the Ibrox side, he could be a mainstay in the Nigeria squad for years to come.
Nigeria takes on Ghana at home on Tuesday and Bassey has been emitting confidence ahead of the tie.
“Obviously, we will get the win,” said Bassey [ScottishDailyExpress].
“It was an honour to represent this great nation.
“Playing in Africa is a lot more physical, it’s just adjusting to the environment, the pitch, the weather, it’s harder to breathe so it’s just adjusting to it.“
The second leg will be a tense affair with a spot at the World Cup on the line, but Bassey appears confident, and if every player peaks, then they should qualify for Qatar.
Hopefully, the Ibrox side can have three players featuring on the biggest stage of all come November.
Meanwhile, Rangers are edging closer to a maiden SWPL title following a thrashing of Hearts.
