Iwobi set for 100th cap as Nigeria faces Portugal

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi is about to join a special group in Nigerian football. He will make his 100th appearance for the national team on Wednesday in an international friendly against Portugal in Leiria.

The Fulham star made his senior debut for Nigeria in October 2015. He will join the ranks of former captains like Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama, and Ahmed Musa.

As he approaches this milestone, Iwobi thanked Nigerians at home and abroad for their support over the years. He said, “I am proud to be where I am today; proud to wear the green-and-white. I am grateful to everyone, including the coach who called me up to the team for the first time. I have no regrets choosing Nigeria.”

Iwobi’s international journey started on 8 October 2015. He played in a friendly match against DR Congo in Belgium. Now, ten years and eight months later, the 30-year-old is ready to celebrate this big moment in another friendly in Europe.

Before committing to Nigeria, Iwobi represented England at youth level. He says he never regretted choosing Nigeria as his international home. “I had represented England at youth level but always felt Nigeria was home,” he explained. “After 10 years and eight months, I won’t say I am a legend; I only see myself as a Super Eagles player. It feels great to be looking at a 100th cap.”

Among his many memories in the national team, Iwobi highlights his winning goal against Zambia in Uyo in October 2017 as the most special. That goal helped Nigeria qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

“I loved the occasion because my dad and my mum were both at the stadium and saw it all. We celebrated together afterwards,” he recalled.

Iwobi has played in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. He won a silver medal in 2023 and bronze medals in 2019 and 2025. He also represented Nigeria in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Iwobi’s father, Chuka Iwobi, who is a barrister and former footballer, shared that the family is very proud of Alex’s achievements in the green-and-white.

“We remain ever grateful to the nation for the opportunity Alex has been given. When he made his debut in 2015, little did we know that this was the beginning of an amazing journey which would lead to him achieving the milestone of a hundred caps and with the potential of many more caps to come.”

“Alex loves playing for the nation and always gives his best. No one can ever question his commitment, devotion and patriotism while wearing the green-and-white.

“There have been highs and lows over the years but he has come out stronger from the experience of playing for the country. We pray that he continues to excel and that the Super Eagles can repay the fans for their love and support.”

For a player who has been a key part of the Super Eagles for the past decade, Wednesday’s match is another chance to make his mark in Nigerian football history.