Alex Iwobi is set to reach a significant milestone in his international career when Nigeria face Portugal in an international friendly on Wednesday, with the Fulham midfielder poised to earn his 100th cap for the Super Eagles, Trybal News reports.
The landmark appearance comes nearly 11 years after Iwobi made his senior debut for Nigeria against DR Congo in Belgium in October 2015. His expected outing against Portugal will see him join an elite group of players to have reached a century of appearances for the three-time African champions.
One of the most consistent performers in the national team over the last decade, Iwobi has represented Nigeria at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, winning silver in 2023 and bronze medals in 2019 and 2025. He was also part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
The 30-year-old is expected to become the fastest player in Nigeria’s history to reach 100 international appearances, surpassing the previous record held by former captain Ahmed Musa.
Speaking ahead of the milestone, Iwobi reflected on his journey with the national team and his decision to commit his international future to Nigeria despite representing England at youth level.
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. 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.
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.”
Despite featuring at major tournaments and collecting medals with the national team, Iwobi says one moment stands above all others.
His decisive goal against Zambia in Uyo during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign remains his favourite Super Eagles memory. The victory secured Nigeria’s place at the tournament in Russia and sparked celebrations across the country.
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, Barrister Chuka Iwobi, praised his son’s commitment to the national team and thanked Nigerians for their support throughout the midfielder’s international career.
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.
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.”
As Nigeria prepare to face Portugal, Iwobi stands on the verge of another major achievement, adding a new chapter to an international career that has spanned more than a decade and cemented his place among the most capped players in the history of the Super Eagles.
