The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has expressed its full support for Super Eagles star Calvin Bassey after he was subjected to racist abuse on social media following Fulham’s FA Cup win over Manchester United on Sunday.
Fulham FC has also condemned the discriminatory actions, standing firmly behind their player.
Bassey played a key role in the match, scoring the decisive goal in the penalty shootout that secured Fulham’s victory over Manchester United in the FA Cup Round of 16. The Nigerian defender also put in a strong defensive performance, helping his side to restrict Manchester United to just one goal during regular play.
Despite his impressive performance, Bassey became the target of racist slurs and offensive comments from opposing fans on social media after the match. In response, Fulham FC issued a statement condemning the abuse and expressing their full support for the player.
BASSSEYYY!
Old Trafford is silenced as Calvin Bassey has his first FA Cup goal in his first-ever FA Cup game for @FulhamFC #EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/VZZub4sUam
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) March 2, 2025
Bassey celebrating his opener against Manchester United.
Fulham FC Responds with Strong Condemnation
“Fulham Football Club is deeply shocked by the racist and homophobic abuse directed at Calvin Bassey, which was shared on social media following yesterday’s FA Cup tie against Manchester United,” the club said in their statement.
“We vehemently condemn this disgusting behaviour, which has no place in football or society. Such actions are completely unacceptable, and we stand firmly behind Calvin Bassey, offering him our full support.”
The club further pledged to work closely with the relevant authorities to identify those responsible for the abuse and ensure that appropriate action is taken.
“Fulham Football Club is committed to combating all forms of discrimination and ensuring an environment of respect and inclusion,” they added.
NFF Shows Solidarity with Bassey
The NFF also issued a statement condemning the abuse and reaffirming their commitment to creating a safe environment for players.
“The NFF stands strongly against all forms of discrimination, including racial abuse, and fully supports Calvin Bassey in the face of these unacceptable actions,” the federation wrote. “We are dedicated to promoting a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all players, both on and off the field. Calvin has our unwavering support, and together, we will continue to fight against racism in football and society.”
Ongoing Issues of Racism in Football
This latest incident of racial abuse highlights a broader issue within football, as numerous black players, including Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka, have faced similar treatment in recent years. Despite the outcry from Fulham FC and the NFF, English authorities have yet to comment on the matter.
As the football community continues to rally behind Bassey, the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against racism in the sport.
Source: TheAthleticNG
