Fulham midfielder, Alex Iwobi, is eagerly anticipating his 100th appearance for Nigeria, with the Super Eagles star set to reach the milestone in Wednesday’s international friendly against Portugal in Leiria.
The 29-year-old is expected to join the exclusive list of Nigerian players to earn 100 caps for the national team, highlighting his enduring influence since making his debut in 2015.
“I am proud to be where I am today; 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,” the former Everton midfielder told thenff.com.
Iwobi’s journey with the Super Eagles began on October 8, 2015, when he featured in a friendly against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Visé, Belgium.
Reflecting on his decision to represent Nigeria, the midfielder revealed that he always felt connected to the country despite featuring for England at youth level.
“I first went to the Nigeria U23 team camp and felt at home. I had represented England at youth level but always felt Nigeria was home. My father always told me to go out there and enjoy my football, and make the decision that I felt was good for me. He was part of the decision but he didn’t force it down on me,” added Iwobi.
The versatile midfielder also expressed delight at reaching the century mark while remaining humble about his achievements.
“After 10 years and eight months, I won’t say I am a legend; I only see myself as a Super Eagles’ player. It feels great to be looking at a 100th cap, and on a lighter note, I wish I can add another 100 caps. I have enjoyed my time with the Super Eagles.”
Among his many moments in national colours, Iwobi singled out his decisive goal against Zambia in Uyo during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as his most memorable experience.
Iwobi’s strike against the Chipolopolo at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in October 2017 secured Nigeria’s place at the Mundial 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 no regrets.”
Iwobi’s father, Chuka, also expressed pride in his son’s achievements and praised his commitment to the national team.
“We remain ever grateful to the nation for the opportunity Alex has been given. When he made his debut in 2015, little did we know that this was the beginning of an amazing and incredible journey which would lead to him achieving the milestone of a hundred caps and with the potential of many more caps to come,” Chuka stated.
“Alex loves playing for the nation and always gives his best. No one can ever question his commitment, devotion and patriotism while wearing the green-and-white. There have been highs and lows over the years but he has emerged stronger from the experience of playing for the country. We pray that he continues to excel and that the Super Eagles are able to repay the fans for their love and support.”
