Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face Jordan in an international friendly in Antalya on Tuesday, with Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon closing in on a significant international milestone.
Both players are expected to feature in the encounter, as they edge closer to 100 caps for Nigeria. Iwobi is set to earn his 98th appearance, while Simon could make his 97th, leaving them within touching distance of the prestigious centurion mark.
Only a select group of Nigerian football legends — Ahmed Musa, Vincent Enyeama and Joseph Yobo — have reached the milestone, highlighting the significance of the feat both players are pursuing.
The friendly also offers Nigeria an opportunity to build on their recent 2–1 victory over Iran, a match in which Simon was on target, underlining his continued importance to the team.
Head coach Eric Chelle will have to contend with defensive absences, with Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi unavailable, leaving limited options at the back.
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Despite this, the Super Eagles head into the fixture in solid form, unbeaten in regulation time in their last five matches a run that reflects increasing stability within the squad.
Jordan, known as Al-Nashama, present a stern test. The World Cup-bound side has lost just once in their last five outings, recording notable victories over Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Egypt, alongside a draw with Costa Rica.
Chelle is expected to reshuffle his defence, with Zaidu Sanusi likely to feature, while Bright Osayi-Samuel could retain his place at right-back. In midfield, Iwobi is set to partner captain Wilfred Ndidi.
In attack, Simon is expected to play a key role alongside Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams.
Both Iwobi and Simon have remained consistent figures for Nigeria over the years, adapting through managerial changes and evolving squad dynamics, a testament to their longevity and importance to the national team.
Beyond the immediate objective of securing back-to-back wins, Tuesday’s clash offers both players another step toward joining Nigeria’s centurion club. Kick-off is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Nigerian time.