Alex Iwobi reached a major milestone in his international career on Wednesday night, earning his 100th cap for Nigeria as the Super Eagles suffered a 2-1 defeat to Portugal in an international friendly in Leiria.
The Fulham midfielder became only the fourth player in Nigeria’s history to make 100 appearances for the national team, joining an elite group that includes Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama and Ahmed Musa.
It was a fitting moment for a player who has been a constant presence in the Super Eagles since making his debut in October 2015.
Portugal took the lead through Pedro Neto before Nigeria responded when Akor Adams capitalised on a defensive lapse to level matters before the break. Francisco Conceição restored Portugal’s advantage in the second half as the hosts edged the contest 2-1.
While the result went Portugal’s way, the night belonged to Iwobi.
Over the past decade, the former Arsenal and Everton midfielder has been one of Nigeria’s most dependable performers, featuring at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
His international journey has produced a number of memorable moments, including the goal that secured Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 World Cup with victory over Zambia and the strike that helped eliminate Cameroon at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
Iwobi also played key roles in Nigeria’s run to a bronze medal at AFCON 2019 and the team’s runners-up finish at AFCON 2023.
The landmark appearance takes his Super Eagles record to 100 caps and 10 goals, a testament to his consistency and longevity at the highest level.
At 30, Iwobi’s place among the most-capped players in Nigerian football history is now secure, adding another chapter to a career defined by loyalty, durability and service to the national team.
