AFCON 2025
Alex Iwobi marked a major milestone in his international career on Wednesday night, making his 100th appearance for the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a 2-1 defeat to Portugal at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.
The midfielder became only the fourth Nigerian player to reach a century of appearances for the national team, joining an exclusive group that includes Vincent Enyeama, Ahmed Musa and Joseph Yobo. His 100th cap also saw him draw level with Yobo on Nigeria’s all-time appearance list, with only Musa and Enyeama having featured more times for the Super Eagles.
The landmark occasion, however, ended in disappointment as Portugal secured victory through goals from Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceição, either side of Akor Adams’ first-half equaliser.
Iwobi delivered a composed performance in midfield and was one of Nigeria’s standout performers, but his efforts could not prevent the hosts from claiming victory in their final preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Portugal opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Chelsea winger Pedro Neto finished a swift counterattack with a low strike into the bottom corner beyond Maduka Okoye.
Nigeria responded strongly and found an equaliser 14 minutes later. Akor Adams used his strength to outmuscle the Portuguese defence before collecting a pass from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and firing past goalkeeper Diogo Costa to make it 1-1.
The Super Eagles held firm for much of the contest, but Portugal’s sustained pressure eventually paid off in the 75th minute. Francisco Conceição cut inside from the right and unleashed a powerful left-footed effort into the far corner to restore the Selecao’s lead.
The result ended Eric Chelle’s 25-match unbeaten run in regulation time as Nigeria coach. Before the defeat, Chelle had overseen 16 victories and nine draws, with his only previous setbacks coming via penalty shootouts.
Portugal, meanwhile, continued their impressive form ahead of the World Cup, recording a third win in four friendly matches under Roberto Martínez.
Despite the defeat, the night belonged to Iwobi, whose achievement further cements his place among the most decorated internationals in Nigerian football history.
The 30-year-old has now registered 100 appearances, 10 goals and eight assists for the Super Eagles since making his debut in 2015, becoming the latest member of Nigeria’s prestigious “100 Caps Club.”
Nigeria will return to action in September when preparations begin for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
