Nigeria’s Super Eagles Defeat Iran In Turkey

According to reports, the Super Eagles of Nigeria opened their March international break with a 2-1 victory over Iran in a friendly match at the Antalya Stadium in Turkey on March 27, 2026. Nigeria seized control early in the game, with Moses Simon breaking the deadlock in the sixth minute, finishing low into the bottom-left corner after a swift solo run.

The team extended their lead in the 51st minute when Akor Adams converted a precise assist from Ademola Lookman, putting Nigeria 2-0 ahead. Head coach Eric Chelle utilized the second half to blood new talent, with Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu making their senior debuts, and later introducing Paul Onuachu, Chidera Ejuke, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in a triple substitution.

Iran pulled one back late, setting up a tense finish, but the Super Eagles held firm, with Frank Onyeka appearing briefly to help see out the final minutes. The fixture marked Nigeria’s first gathering since their bronze medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and offered a morale boost following their World Cup campaign, which ended in a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo.

Friday’s friendly was only the third meeting between Nigeria and Iran, with Nigeria winning their previous encounter in 1998 and the 2014 World Cup match ending in a goalless draw. The Super Eagles now shift focus to their next friendly against Jordan on Tuesday in Turkey.