Iwobi ready for landmark 100th cap as Nigeria take on Portugal

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi is on the cusp of a significant milestone, preparing to make his 100th appearance for the Nigerian national team in an international friendly against Portugal.

This landmark achievement places Iwobi in the company of Nigerian footballing greats such as Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama, and Ahmed Musa. The Fulham star, who made his senior debut for Nigeria in October 2015, reflected on his journey with immense gratitude towards Nigerians both at home and abroad for their unwavering support.

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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.

"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 stated. He recalled his debut match against DR Congo in Belgium and expressed his deep satisfaction with his international career, despite having represented England at youth level.

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I had represented England at youth level but always felt Nigeria was home. 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.

Iwobi highlighted his winning goal against Zambia in 2017, which secured Nigeria's qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, as a particularly cherished memory. His father, Chuka Iwobi, a barrister and former footballer, shared the family's immense pride in Alex's achievements, emphasizing his commitment and patriotism while playing for the Super Eagles.

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

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

Iwobi has also represented Nigeria in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, securing silver in 2023 and bronze medals in 2019 and 2025. His impending 100th cap marks a distinguished career dedicated to the national team.

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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 and incredible journey which would lead to him achieving the milestone of a hundred caps and with the potential of many more caps to come.