Charles Bassey, Member of 1980 Green Eagles Squad, Dies at 71

Nigerian football is again in mourning, following the death of Charles Bassey, a former member of the Green Eagles team that brought home the country’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980.

Bassey, who passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the age of 71, had been battling a long-term illness before dying in his hometown of Eket, Akwa Ibom State.

His death came just hours after the loss of Christian Chukwu, the legendary captain of the 1980 AFCON squad, making it a day of double sorrow for Nigerian football lovers.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed Bassey’s passing and expressed deep grief over the loss, acknowledging his key role in the nation's football history both on and off the pitch.

Bassey was part of the historic Green Eagles team that defeated Algeria 3-0 at the National Stadium, Lagos, on March 22, 1980. That victory marked Nigeria’s emergence as a continental football force.

Following his retirement from active play, Bassey went into coaching, managing several clubs including Wikki Tourists, Calabar Rovers, BCC Lions, Flash Flamingoes, and his hometown side, Mobil Pegasus.

His death increases the number of deceased players from the 1980 AFCON-winning squad to nine, highlighting the gradual fading of a legendary generation.

Others who have passed on include goalkeepers Best Ogedegbe and Moses Effiong; defenders Christian Chukwu, Okechukwu Isima, Tunde Bamidele; midfielders Aloysius Atugbu and Mudashiru Lawal; and striker Martins Eyo.

“This has been a day of double tragedy… May God Almighty grant their souls eternal rest,” said NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi.