Nigeria’s Super Eagles emerged victorious in their international friendly against Iran, securing a 2-1 win in Antalya, Turkey, on Friday. Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams ensured the team, under the guidance of Eric Chelle, achieved a morale-boosting result, Naija Footy reports.
Chelle opted for a robust starting lineup, reintroducing Maduka Okoye in goal. The defensive unit was anchored by Semi Ajayi and Igoh Ogbu, while the midfield featured captain Wilfred Ndidi alongside Fulham’s Alex Iwobi. The attack was spearheaded by the dynamic quartet of Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Akor Adams.
The Super Eagles began with remarkable intensity, claiming an early lead within five minutes. Simon capitalized on a swift counterattack orchestrated by Chukwueze, who delivered an incisive pass. Cutting inside from the wing, Simon unleashed a powerful shot at the near post, leaving the Iranian goalkeeper with no opportunity to intervene.
Dominating possession and maintaining pressure, Nigeria nearly doubled their advantage midway through the first half. A seamless passing sequence dismantled Iran’s defensive structure, allowing Chukwueze to set up Adams. However, his effort from a challenging angle grazed the side netting, narrowly missing the target.
Chelle initiated tactical adjustments at halftime by introducing Emmanuel Fernandez, who made his debut in place of Ajayi. The changes bore fruit as Nigeria extended their lead early in the second half. Lookman delivered a precise through-ball to Adams, who confidently slotted the ball past the advancing goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
Additional substitutions followed, with another debutant, Chibuike Nwaiwu, replacing Ogbu in the defensive line. Iran managed to respond in the 68th minute when Mehdi Taremi executed an acrobatic finish from close range, narrowing the deficit and setting up a tense closing phase of the match.
Moments later, Taremi appeared to have leveled the score after rounding goalkeeper Okoye to find the net. However, the goal was disallowed due to a handball infringement. This decision preserved Nigeria’s narrow lead.
As the game progressed, Chelle continued to rotate his squad by introducing Paul Onuachu, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Chidera Ejuke for Adams, Simon, and Chukwueze, respectively. Despite Iran’s sustained pressure in search of an equalizer during the final stages, Nigeria’s defense held firm to secure the victory.
This win serves as a significant confidence booster for Chelle’s side as they prepare for their upcoming international friendly against Jordan, scheduled for Tuesday, March 31.
