AFCON 2025
As Nigeria prepares to face the Iran national football team in an international friendly, attention will naturally turn to the players who could decide the outcome of the match.
Iran has built a reputation as one of Asia’s most organised national teams, and having qualified to the 2026 FIFA world cup? They are looking to strengthen their teams, and playing a rare opponent as Nigeria is an opportunity to better get accustomed with football outside of Asia.
Below are three Iranian players the Super Eagles must watch closely.
1. Mehdi Taremi
One of the most dangerous attackers in Asian football, Mehdi Taremi remains Iran’s biggest attacking threat.
The striker has built his reputation in Europe with FC Porto, and currently with Olympiacos where his movement in the penalty area and clinical finishing have made him one of the club’s most reliable scorers in recent seasons.
Taremi is currently one of Iran’s leading goalscorers, netting 54 goals in 100 appearances.
For Nigeria’s defence, the challenge will be preventing crosses and through balls that allow the striker to operate inside the box. If given space, Taremi has the composure and finishing ability to punish even the smallest defensive lapse.
2. Mehdi Hashemnejad
Another player capable of troubling Nigeria’s back line is Mehdi Hashemnejad, a winger who plays for Tractor in the Persian Gulf League, has recorded 5 goals and 8 assists to his name this season. He is known for his pace and direct style of play.
Hashemnejad is the type of wide player who likes to run at defenders and stretch opposition back lines. His speed on the flanks allows Iran to transition quickly from defence to attack, especially during counterattacks.
For Nigeria’s full backs, maintaining defensive discipline will be crucial. Allowing Hashemnejad too much room on the wings could create dangerous situations for the Super Eagles’ defence.
3. Saman Ghoddos
Midfield creativity often determines how dangerous a team becomes in attack, and 32-year-old Saman Ghoddos is one of Iran’s most technically gifted players.
Ghoddos is known for his vision, passing range, and ability to link midfield with attack. Operating behind the forwards, he has the ability to pick out runs from teammates and create scoring opportunities.
In his 63 appearances for Iran, he has provided 9 Assists. A stats Nigerian midfielder should be worried about.
If Nigeria allows him time on the ball, Ghoddos could dictate the tempo of Iran’s attacking play. Closing down space in midfield will therefore be a key task for the Super Eagles.
