Earlier today, March 27, the Nigerian Super Eagles defeated Iran 2-1 in a friendly at the Antalya Stadium in Turkey to begin their March international break.
The Nigerian national football squad survived a late scare after scoring early and maintaining control for extended periods of time.
The Super Eagles quickly made their presence known. Moses Simon set the tone in the sixth minute by collecting the ball on the break, skipping past his marker, and burying a low finish into the bottom-left corner. Nigeria made several threats prior to halftime, and the opening goal concluded a strong start.
Early in the second half, the Super Eagles doubled their lead. After 51 minutes, Akor Adams calmly converted to make it 2-0 thanks to a deft assist from Ademola Lookman.
As the game went on, Eric Chelle, the head coach of Nigeria, looked to his bench. Chibuike Nwaiwu received his first cap after replacing Igoh Ogbu, and Emmanuel Fernandez made his debut at halftime after replacing Semi Ajayi. Later, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Akor Adams were replaced by Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
The Super Eagles held firm against Iran’s late-game comeback, which set up a suspenseful end. As the Super Eagles played out the final seconds, Frank Onyeka made a brief appearance.
According to Naija News, the match was Nigeria’s first since winning bronze at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and gave them a much-needed lift after their World Cup dreams were dashed by a penalty loss to DR Congo.
The meeting on Friday was just Nigeria and Iran’s third confrontation. Nigeria’s 2014 World Cup group match ended in a goalless draw, however they won their prior friendly in 1998.
The Super Eagles now focus on their upcoming friendly, which will take place in Turkey on Tuesday against Jordan.
