The Nigerian football community is reeling after a devastating day that saw the passing of two legends from the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winning squad. Charles Bassey and Christian Chukwu’s deaths have plunged the nation into mourning. This article dives into the details of this heartbreaking ‘double tragedy’.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The shocking news of Charles Bassey’s death, hours after Christian Chukwu.
- Tributes and reactions from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
- A look back at the iconic 1980 AFCON victory.
- The growing list of deceased members from that legendary squad.
- A glimpse into the careers of Bassey and Chukwu after their playing days.
A Black Day for Nigerian Football
Just hours after the news of Christian Chukwu’s death broke, Nigeria was hit with another devastating blow: the passing of Charles Bassey. Bassey, aged 71, died in his hometown of Eket, Akwa Ibom State, after a prolonged illness. The timing of these two deaths has been described as a ‘double tragedy’ by the NFF.
NFF’s Heartfelt Condolences
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed deep sorrow and sadness over the loss of these two football icons. Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the NFF General Secretary, stated, “This has been a day of double tragedy, and the NFF and the entire Nigeria football fraternity are deeply saddened by the turn of events. We lost ‘Chairman’ Chukwu earlier in the day; now, we have to mourn Charles Bassey. May God Almighty grant their souls eternal rest.”
Remembering the 1980 AFCON Triumph
Charles Bassey was an integral part of the Green Eagles team that made history in 1980. They secured Nigeria’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title with a resounding 3-0 victory over Algeria at the National Stadium, Surulere. That victory remains a cherished moment in Nigerian sporting history.
The victorious Green Eagles of 1980, a team etched in Nigerian football folklore (Source: THISDAY Newspapers)
The Fallen Eagles: Remembering the Departed Heroes
Sadly, with Bassey’s passing, the number of deceased members from that iconic 1980 squad has risen to nine. They include:
- Goalkeepers: Best Ogedegbe and Moses Effiong
- Defenders: Christian Chukwu, Okechukwu Isima, and Tunde Bamidele
- Midfielders: Aloysius Atugbu and Mudashiru Lawal
- Forward: Martins Eyo
Bassey’s Coaching Career
After hanging up his boots, Charles Bassey transitioned into coaching. He managed several domestic clubs, including Calabar Rovers, Mobil Pegasus, BCC Lions of Gboko, Flash Flamingoes of Benin, Akwa United, and Wikki Tourists of Bauchi. His contributions to Nigerian football extended beyond his playing career.
Christian Chukwu: ‘Chairman’ Remembered
Christian Chukwu, nicknamed ‘Chairman’, was the captain of the 1980 AFCON-winning team. A true legend, his leadership and skill inspired a generation of Nigerian footballers. His death is a significant loss to the nation.
A Nation in Mourning
The deaths of Charles Bassey and Christian Chukwu mark a dark day for Nigerian football. Their contributions to the sport will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations. The entire nation mourns the loss of these true heroes.
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