Alex Iwobi Ends 100th Game For Super Eagles In Defeat To Ronaldo’s Portugal

Alex Iwobi’s 100th appearance for the Super Eagles ended in defeat on Wednesday night, June 10, as Nigeria lost 2-1 to Portugal in an international friendly at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.

Alex Iwobi was honoured by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) before kick-off, receiving a commemorative plaque to mark his century of appearances for the three-time African champions.

Iwobi became only the fourth Nigerian player to reach 100 caps, joining former captain Joseph Yobo, retired goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama and ex-forward Ahmed Musa in the exclusive club.

Portugal began brightly and nearly took an early lead through Cristiano Ronaldo, who fired wide after finding space in front of goal. Nigeria also threatened through Calvin Bassey, Akor Adams and Wilfred Ndidi, but neither side could find the breakthrough in the opening exchanges.

The hosts eventually went ahead midway through the first half when Pedro Neto finished neatly after being picked out by Diogo Dalot.

Nigeria responded well and drew level before the break. Adams exchanged passes with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru before slotting home with his left foot to make it 1-1.

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye played a key role in keeping his side in the game, producing a series of important saves throughout the match.

Portugal made several changes at half-time and regained the lead in the second half through Francisco Conceição. The winger beat his marker before firing a powerful effort into the bottom corner from a tight angle.

Nigeria pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way past the Portuguese defence as Roberto Martínez’s side held on for victory.

Despite the defeat, the Super Eagles delivered a competitive performance against the World Cup-bound Europeans, even without key forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.

The result brought an end to Nigeria’s six-match unbeaten run, while Portugal extended their unbeaten streak to five matches.

Alex Iwobi’s milestone appearance nevertheless provided a memorable moment for the Fulham midfielder, whose international journey began in October 2015. Since making his debut, the 30-year-old star has established himself as one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers, recording 10 goals and eight assists in 100 appearances for the national team.