Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has likened his goalscoring ability to that of a poacher after netting in Fulham’s penalty shootout win over Manchester United in the FA Cup fifth round at Old Trafford on Sunday, Afrosport reports.
Bassey put the Cottagers ahead in the first half with a header from a corner to make it his second goal at Old Trafford within a year having scored alongside compatriot Alex Iwobi in a 2-1 win in the Premier League last season.
Fulham went on to win the game 4-3 on penalties which Bassey attributes to a bit of luck.
“It’s a privilege and an honour to be here. To come here, it is a blessing, so I’m happy,” the former Rangers player said.
“I like to say I’m a bit of a poacher. Trying to smell where the ball would go and reacted first. Put my head on it and back of the net.
“They’re a very good team with a lot of talent. We tried to take the sting out of the game and control possession.
“They had their chances and sometimes a game goes down to penalties. We had a bit of fortune in the penalties with Leno saving two.
“I am proud of every single player.”
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) March 2, 2025
Bassey also praised Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno who saved United’s last two penalties by Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee to win the game for the Cottagers.
“He has been amazing. He has kept us in games so many times. He deserves the recognition,” he added.
“We’re buzzing and we take each game as it comes.
“That’s the best way to take each game. Don’t get too down with the losses and don’t let the wins get to your head.”
Fulham will get to face London rivals Crystal Palace in the quarter-finals.
