The Super Eagles of Nigeria kicked off their March international break with a solid 2-1 victory over Iran at the Antalya Stadium in Turkey on March 27.
Nigeria started strong and dominated large stretches of the match, though they had to survive a late scare from the Iranian side.
🥅 Early Strike Sets the Tone
The Eagles wasted no time stamping their authority. In the 6th minute, Moses Simon picked up the ball on a counterattack, danced past his marker, and slotted a low finish into the bottom-left corner to give Nigeria an early lead.
The opener was a perfect reflection of Nigeria’s bright start, with multiple attacking threats before halftime.
⚽ Nigeria Doubles Up
Just after the break, the Eagles struck again. Ademola Lookman delivered a precise assist to Akor Adams, who calmly finished to make it 2-0 in the 51st minute.
🔄 New Faces Get a Chance
Head coach Eric Chelle made a series of substitutions to give younger players their first taste of international football:
- Emmanuel Fernandez replaced Semi Ajayi at halftime to make his debut
- Chibuike Nwaiwu earned his first cap, coming on for Igoh Ogbu
- Later, Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru came on for Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Akor Adams
⏱️ Late Drama
Iran pulled one back in the closing stages, making the finish tense, but Nigeria held firm. Frank Onyeka came on late to help the Eagles see out the remaining minutes, ensuring the 2-1 win.
🌍 Context & Next Steps
This friendly marked Nigeria’s first gathering since winning bronze at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and provided a morale boost after their World Cup hopes ended in a penalty defeat to DR Congo.
Friday’s clash was only the third meeting between Nigeria and Iran:
- Nigeria won their previous friendly in 1998
- Their 2014 World Cup group match ended 0-0
The Super Eagles now focus on their next friendly against Jordan, scheduled for Tuesday in Turkey.
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