Alex Iwobi Set for 90th Super Eagles Cap as Nigeria Face Gabon in Crucial World Cup Playoff
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi is on the verge of reaching a major milestone in his international career as he gears up to make his 90th appearance for the Super Eagles of Nigeria when they take on the Panthers of Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff in Rabat on Thursday (today).
Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to name Iwobi in his starting XI, barring any late fitness issues, as Nigeria aim to secure a vital advantage in the high-stakes encounter.
The 29-year-old, who initially represented England at youth level, switched his allegiance to Nigeria in 2015 — a decision that has since defined his football identity and endeared him to millions of Nigerian fans.
Iwobi made his Super Eagles debut in a friendly against the Democratic Republic of Congo in October 2015. Since then, he has grown into a dependable figure in midfield, blending creativity, composure, and versatility to become a mainstay in the national team setup.
A product of the Arsenal Academy, Iwobi has featured in several major tournaments for Nigeria, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and multiple Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaigns — most notably helping the team finish third in 2019 and second at AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire.
Opinion: Alex Iwobi — The Quiet Workhorse Who Deserves More Flowers 🌿⚽
In a football culture that often celebrates flashy attackers and headline-grabbing goalscorers, Alex Iwobi has quietly built a legacy of consistency, loyalty, and leadership for the Super Eagles.
He may not always dominate the highlights reel, but his influence on the pitch is undeniable. From threading key passes in tight spaces to maintaining composure under pressure, Iwobi has evolved from a promising young talent into one of Nigeria’s most reliable and intelligent players.
What stands out most about Iwobi is his humility and resilience. Despite the waves of criticism that occasionally surround him — often unfairly — he keeps showing up, game after game, with professionalism and heart. His journey from being a bright Arsenal prospect to a Fulham leader and Nigerian veteran reflects not just talent, but character.
As he clocks his 90th cap, Iwobi deserves to be celebrated not just for his longevity, but for the quiet leadership and tactical discipline he brings to the green-and-white jersey.
If there’s ever been a reminder that greatness isn’t always loud — Alex Iwobi embodies it perfectly.
