ALEX IWOBI PICKS 2018 WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION GOAL AS HIS MOST MEMORABLE SUPER EAGLES MOMENT

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Agency Report

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has identified his decisive goal against Zambia in October 2017, which secured Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, as his most memorable moment in national team colours ahead of his landmark 100th appearance.

Iwobi is set to become only the fourth player to reach 100 caps for Nigeria, joining Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama and Ahmed Musa, when the Super Eagles face Portugal in an international friendly in Leiria on Wednesday.

The Fulham star made his debut for Nigeria in a friendly match against DR Congo in Visé, Belgium, on October 8, 2015, after previously representing England at youth level.

Reflecting on his journey with the national team, Iwobi expressed pride in his decision to commit his international future to Nigeria.

“I am proud to be where I am today and proud to wear the green-and-white jersey. I am grateful to everyone, including the coach who gave me my first call-up. I have no regrets choosing Nigeria,” he said.

Iwobi revealed that his first experience with the Nigeria U-23 camp convinced him he had made the right decision.

“I had represented England at youth level but always felt Nigeria was home. My father encouraged me to enjoy my football and make the decision that felt right for me. He supported me but never pressured me,” he added.

Speaking on his standout moment with the Super Eagles, the 30-year-old pointed to his winning goal against Zambia at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, which confirmed Nigeria’s place at the 2018 World Cup.

“That moment remains special because both my dad and mum were in the stadium to witness it, and we celebrated together afterwards. It was an unforgettable experience,” he said.

Although he admitted he would have loved to win the Africa Cup of Nations and feature in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, Iwobi said he remains grateful for his achievements with the national team.

Since making his debut nearly 11 years ago, Iwobi has represented Nigeria at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, winning silver in 2023 and bronze medals in 2019 and 2025, while also featuring at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Heading into his 100th appearance, the midfielder has recorded 10 goals and eight assists in 99 matches for the Super Eagles.