Alex Iwobi Praises Debutants After Nigeria’s Win Over Iran

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has commended the impressive performances of debutants Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu following Nigeria’s 2-1 friendly victory over World Cup-bound Iran in Antalya, Turkey on March 27.

Nigeria got off to a strong start in the match, taking a two-goal lead through Moses Simon and Akor Adams. Iran responded later in the second half, with Mehdi Taremi pulling one back to make it a tense finish.

The second half saw both Fernandez and Nwaiwu make their international debuts. Fernandez came on at halftime to replace Semi Ajayi, while Nwaiwu was introduced in the 57th minute after Calvin Bassey was forced off. Both defenders delivered solid performances, helping Nigeria maintain their lead under pressure.

Speaking on his YouTube podcast, Iwobi praised the newcomers for their composure and contribution to the win.

Iwobi said on the Alexander Yaa Digg podcast: "Nice to get the 2-1 win against Iran, credit to Iran, they are a good solid team… Credit to us, we got the two goals we needed to win the game. Shout out to the two centre-backs that played the second half, making their debuts, they did well, they did solid. It was a good performance. The main thing is that we won, that gives us a confidence boost."