Alex Iwobi will become only the fourth Nigerian to reach 100 appearances for the Super Eagles when he faces Portugal in Leiria on Wednesday.
The Fulham midfielder joins Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama and Ahmed Musa in a group reserved for Nigeria’s most durable internationals.
Yobo was the first to hit the milestone, earning 100 caps and scoring seven goals between 2001 and 2014. The former captain anchored Nigeria’s defense for over a decade, playing at three World Cups and six Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. He lifted the AFCON trophy in 2013 and captained the side in his 100th game against France at the 2014 World Cup before retiring.
Enyeama reached 101 caps as Nigeria’s goalkeeper from 2002 to 2015. Recognized by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics as Africa’s greatest goalkeeper, he starred at three World Cups and six AFCONs. His heroics helped Nigeria win the 2013 AFCON, where he was named best goalkeeper. He won his 100th cap in a 1-0 loss to Uganda in March 2015.
Related news:
Why Coaches Trust Iwobi: Discipline Over Talent – Sodje
EPL: Iwobi Set to Miss Fulham’s Clash Against Arsenal Over Injury
Home or High Stakes? Osimhen Torn Between Galatasaray Legend Status and Elite European Move
Fernandez Scores First Eagles Goal as Nigeria Draw 2-2 with Jordan, Iwobi Sent Off
Eric Chelle Names Two Super Eagles Squads for Unity Cup, Poland and Portugal Friendlies
Musa leads the list with 111 caps and 16 goals across 15 years. The winger debuted in 2010 and became known for his pace and big-game goals, including a brace against Iceland at the 2018 World Cup. He won AFCON in 2013, took bronze in 2019, and silver in 2023. Musa captained the side in his later years and retired as Nigeria’s most capped player.
For Iwobi, the milestone marks the end of an 11-year journey that began when he chose Nigeria over England at youth level. Influenced by his uncle Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, he made his debut on October 8, 2015, against DR Congo and has since become one of the team’s most reliable players.
His standout moment came on October 7, 2017, when his goal against Zambia sent Nigeria to the 2018 World Cup. Iwobi has played at the 2018 World Cup and four AFCON tournaments, winning silver in 2023 and bronze in 2019 and 2025. He has scored 10 goals and provided eight assists in 99 appearances.
“I am proud to be where I am today; proud to wear the green-and-white. I have no regrets choosing Nigeria,” Iwobi told NFF Media ahead of the match.
About the Author
