AFCON 2025
Nigeria secured a 2–1 victory over Iran in an international friendly in Turkey, with early control and a composed second-half finish proving enough to seal the result.
Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams gave the Super Eagles the edge in a game that tested both structure and attacking efficiency.
The match started at a quick pace, and it was Nigeria who wasted no time asserting themselves. Simon opened the scoring as early as the 6th minute, finishing off a sharp attacking move to give the Eagles an early advantage.
In the second half, Nigeria added to their control, and Adams scored Nigeria’s second of the night in the 51st minute after being set up by Ademola Lookman.
Iran grew into the game afterwards, enjoying spells of possession and eventually finding a goal courtesy of their team captain of the night.
The Eagles managed the game better, holding off Iran’s pressure to secure the win. However, here are three Nigerian players that stood out in the match.
1. Moses Simon
Simon’s impact was immediate. His early goal gave Nigeria control and forced Iran to adjust their approach.
Aside from the goal, he remained Nigeria’s most direct attacking outlet. He stretched play, took on defenders, and consistently delivered dangerous balls into the final third.
2. Akor Adams
Adams delivered the decisive moment of the match.
His second-half goal extended Nigeria’s lead and shifted momentum back in their favour. He showed good awareness to get into position and finished with composure from a through pass from Ademola Lookman
Outside the goal, his hold-up play helped Nigeria maintain attacking structure. Despite missing a few chances that should have counted as goals for Nigeria, he gave the team a focal point and linked well with runners around him.
3. Ademola Lookman
Despite not finding the back of the net, Ademola Lookman remained a solid force in the Nigerian midfield. Consistently driving the ball into attack.
His effort with a through pass found Akor Adams who scored Nigeria’s second goal of the day.
Lookman’s contribution may not grab headlines like the goalscorers, but it was just as important.
Operating between midfield and attack, he connected play and created openings with intelligent movement and passing.
It was a performance that showed control, awareness, and creativity.
