LEIRIA — Alex Iwobi reached a milestone that very few Nigerian footballers have achieved. He made his 100th appearance for the Super Eagles in their 2-1 friendly defeat to Portugal in Leiria on Wednesday, June 10.
The Fulham midfielder became only the second Nigerian player to reach the century mark for the national team. He expressed deep gratitude to supporters, his family, teammates, and coaches who helped him along the journey.
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The Match
Portugal took control early. Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot set up Pedro Neto for the opening goal in the 23rd minute. Dalot said after the match that the assist was simply a natural part of his game.
Nigeria fought back. The Super Eagles created several clear chances and showed the kind of structure head coach Eric Chelle has been building since taking charge. However, Portugal added a second goal before halftime.
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Nigeria’s consolation came in the second half through a well-worked team move, giving the scoreline more respectability. Portugal centre-back Tomas Araujo acknowledged that Nigeria had made life difficult. “They are not an easy team,” he told reporters.
Chelle Sees Progress
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle said the result was less important than the performance. He praised Nigeria’s organisation and said the team was building toward the AFCON qualifiers and the 2030 World Cup campaign.
“What I want to see is the attitude and the shape,” Chelle said. “The attitude was excellent. The shape was good. We can build on this.”
Context
Nigeria missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, currently underway in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The team’s poor qualifying campaign has been a source of national frustration. However, analysts say the June friendlies suggest gradual improvement under Chelle.
