Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi made his 100th appearance for Nigeria on Wednesday during the friendly match against Portugal in Leiria, receiving a commemorative plaque bearing the number 100 to mark the milestone.
Iwobi became only the fourth player to reach 100 appearances for the Super Eagles, joining Joseph Yobo, Vincent Enyeama and Ahmed Musa in the exclusive club.
The Fulham midfielder made his debut for Nigeria in a friendly against DR Congo in Visé, Belgium, on October 8, 2015, after representing England at youth level.
Ahead of his landmark appearance, Iwobi identified his goal against Zambia at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo in October 2017 as his most memorable moment in national team colours.
The goal, one of the 10 he has scored for Nigeria, secured the Super Eagles’ qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
“I loved the occasion because my dad and my mum were both at the stadium and saw it all, and we celebrated together afterwards. It was an exciting moment.
“Yes, I would have loved to win the AFCON and perhaps be with the Eagles at the FIFA World Cup that is about to kick off in a few days’ time, but I have no regrets.
Reflecting on his decision to switch allegiance from England to Nigeria, Iwobi added, “I first went to the Nigeria U-23 team camp and felt at home. I had represented England at youth level but always felt Nigeria was home.
“I am proud to be where I am today and 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,” he told NFF Media.
“My father always told me to go out there and enjoy my football, and make the decision that I felt was right for me. He was part of the decision, but he didn’t force it on me.”
