Super Eagles Defeat Iran 2–1 in Turkey Friendly
Last update: March 27, 2026
Disclaimer: This website may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. We only recommend products or services that we personally use and believe will add value to our readers. Your support is appreciated!
Super Eagles secure friendly victory over Iran in Turkey...
The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their March international break on a winning note after defeating Iran 2–1 in an international friendly played at the Antalya Stadium in Turkey on Friday.
Nigeria took early control of the game and dominated long stretches of the encounter before holding on to secure the victory despite a late push from the Iranian side.
The Super Eagles wasted little time asserting themselves as Moses Simon opened the scoring in the sixth minute.
The winger collected the ball during a quick counterattack, skipped past his marker and fired a low shot into the bottom-left corner, giving Nigeria an early advantage.
The goal set the tone for the first half as Nigeria continued to threaten Iran’s defence and maintained attacking pressure before the break.
Nigeria strengthened their lead shortly after the restart when Ademola Lookman delivered a well-timed assist to Akor Adams.
Adams calmly slotted the ball home in the 51st minute to make it 2–0, putting the Super Eagles firmly in control of the match.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle used the match to test new players and made several changes as the game progressed.
Emmanuel Fernandez replaced Semi Ajayi at half-time to make his debut, while Chibuike Nwaiwu also earned his first international cap after coming on for Igoh Ogbu.
Later in the match, Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru were introduced in a triple substitution, replacing Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Akor Adams.
Frank Onyeka also made a late appearance as Nigeria sought to maintain their lead.
Iran reduced the deficit late in the match, setting up a tense finish.
However, the Super Eagles held their composure in the closing moments to secure the 2–1 victory.
The match marked Nigeria’s first international gathering since finishing third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The victory also offered a morale boost after the team’s World Cup hopes ended in a penalty defeat to DR Congo.
Friday’s match was only the third meeting between Nigeria and Iran. Nigeria won their previous friendly encounter in 1998, while their 2014 FIFA World Cup group-stage clash ended in a goalless draw.
The Super Eagles will now shift focus to their next friendly against Jordan on Tuesday, also scheduled to take place in Turkey.
