Victor Osimhen has praised Calvin Bassey as Africa’s best defender while naming Tottenham’s Cristian Romero among his toughest opponents

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has named Fulham defender Calvin Bassey as the best African defender, while also highlighting Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian Romero as one of the toughest opponents he has faced in his career.

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The Nigerian forward made the remarks in an interview with River Rhodes after helping Galatasaray secure another Turkish Super Lig title, where he reflected on defenders who have tested him both in training and competitive matches.

Osimhen described Calvin Bassey as exceptionally strong and consistent, praising his physical presence and development in the Premier League.

“I’ll say, Calvin Bassey. First of all, in training. That guy is very strong, really very strong,” Osimhen said.

The striker went further to describe Bassey as currently the best defender in Africa, while also ranking him among the top defenders in England’s top flight.

Turning his attention to Cristian Romero, Osimhen recalled their encounters and described the Argentine World Cup winner as highly intelligent and difficult to break down.

“Romero of Spurs, he’s actually a very intelligent defender. He gave me a hard time when we met,” he added.

The Galatasaray star noted that both defenders stood out among several world-class opponents he has faced throughout his career, describing them as the most challenging.

Osimhen has enjoyed a strong spell in Turkey, scoring twice in a recent league match to help Galatasaray clinch the title and take his season tally to 22 goals.

His success also saw him equal a long-standing record held by former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo for the most Turkish league titles won by a Nigerian player.

Calvin Bassey has continued to grow in influence at Fulham, earning praise for his strength and defensive discipline in the Premier League, while Cristian Romero remains a key figure for Tottenham Hotspur and Argentina’s national team.

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The comments have sparked discussion among fans, with many highlighting Osimhen’s respect for both Nigerian and international defenders.