By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
The Nigeria national football team secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Iran national football team in an international friendly on Friday, with goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams giving the Super Eagles the edge. Mehdi Taremi scored for Iran but could not prevent Nigeria from claiming the win.
The match, first after the Africa Cup of Nations in January, offered Nigeria an opportunity to blend established players with new faces as the team continues to rebuild and fine-tune its squad. On the other hand, the match serves as fine tuning process for the Persia team as Iran intensifies their preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Before kickoff, Iran players carried school bags during the national anthem procession to honour the 180 schoolgirls killed in the Minaab girls’ school massacre, a poignant reminder of the human stories that transcend football.
Nigeria struck early when Moses Simon picked up the ball on the break in the 6th minute, outpacing his marker and calmly slotting into the bottom-left corner.
The early strike set the tone, giving Nigeria confidence to dominate the opening exchanges while testing Iran’s defensive organization.
The Super Eagles doubled their lead in the 51st minute. Ademola Lookman delivered a precise assist to Akor Adams, who finished with composure to make it 2–0.
Moments after the goal, Nigeria began introducing new talent. Emmanuel Fernandez replaced Semi Ajayi to make his debut, and Igoh Ogbu made way for Chibuike Nwaiwu, who also earned his first cap.
Iran responded in the 67th minute when Mehdi Taremi slotted home inside the box, after Maduka Okoye had initially saved his header from a corner-kick, to bring the score to 2–1. Iran pressed for an equalizer, but Nigeria’s defense held firm under pressure.
Nigeria made additional substitutions in the 69th minute, bringing on Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru for Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Akor Adams, giving several players valuable international minutes.
Nigeria will face Jordan national football team in their next friendly in four days, with momentum and squad confidence on their side. This match will provide another opportunity to assess tactics and refine combinations.