Day: June 13, 2025

Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey wins Fulham's Player of the Year

Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey wins Fulham’s Player of the Year

Calvin Bassey has been awarded the title of Fulham’s Player of the Season for the 2024/25 campaign.

Following a commendable second-place finish in his inaugural season last year, Bassey has improved his performance, securing the top position in the final voting.

A remarkably reliable presence in defence, Bassey participated in all but three of the Premier League matches as the team achieved a record points total. His pace, strength, and composure while advancing the ball from the back have been integral to the team’s success.

Additionally, he made significant contributions to the offensive effort, scoring two crucial goals: the decisive goal in the victory against the formidable Nottingham Forest and the opening goal during the memorable Emirates FA Cup triumph at Old Trafford.

In expressing his gratitude, Bassey stated,I extend my thanks to all who voted for me as Player of the Season. I must acknowledge God; without divine support, I would not be where I am today.

“I also wish to express my appreciation to my teammates, including those no longer at the Club, who have supported my development.

“I am particularly grateful to the coaching staff and the Manager for their trust and belief in my capabilities. I hope that we can achieve remarkable success in the forthcoming season, and I appreciate the support provided by all.”

Calvin Bassey (39.6%), Alex Iwobi (21.5%), Antonee Robinson (19.9%)

Bernd Leno (10.9%) and Saša Lukić (8.1%)

Al Ahly named Squad for FIFA Club World Cup tournament

Al Ahly and Messi’s Inter Miami to open FIFA Club World Cup tournament

Al Ahly’s coach, José Riveiro, has announced the team that will compete in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

Al Ahly will start the tournament on June 15 with a match against the host team, Inter Miami. In the group stage, they will also play Brazilian club Palmeiras on June 19 and the Portuguese side Porto on June 24.

The referees for the matches are: main referee Ali Reza Faghani, first assistant Anton Shchetin, second assistant Ashley Beecham, and fourth referee Simon Marciniak.

In their last game, Al Ahly drew 1-1 with Pachuca in a friendly match. Inter Miami won their last match 5-1 against the Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer.

Al Ahly, a top team in Egypt, has won the CAF Champions League three times in the past five years. This success gives them their tenth chance to play in the Club World Cup. On the other hand, Inter Miami’s route to the tournament was less straightforward. They won the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield for having the best seasonal record but lost 3-2 to Atlanta in the playoffs.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said this performance earned Inter a spot in the Club World Cup. With coach Javier Mascherano, star players Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets will lead Inter, making them favourites to start strong in Group A.