The Super Eagles of Nigeria are preparing to face Iran in an international friendly encounter on Friday, March 27 as part of an invitational four-nation tournament also involving Jordan and Costa Rica, Footynaija.com reports.
Based on international footballing stature and firepower alone, Nigeria head into this clash as clear favourites. But if there’s anything football has shown us in recent years, it’s that there are hardly any underdogs in the game anymore.
With this in mind, we’ll be taking a look at some Iranian stars capable of causing problems for the Super Eagles ahead of their clash at the Amman International Stadium, Antalya.
Related Post
4. Saman Ghoddos
Ghoddos may now ply his trade in the United Arab Emirates Pro League with Al Ittihad Kalba but the former Brentford midfielder still boasts plenty of experience when it comes to playing the game at the highest level.
That experience will surely come in handy as he looks to help Iran get the better of players like Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka at the heart of Nigeria’s midfield.
The 32-year-old also carries a considerable amount of attacking threat, with five goal contributions for his club in 20 outings this term. So Nigeria’s defense will have to be wary of that side of his game as well.
3. Dennis Eckert
The versatile German-born forward is one of the Iranian national team’s latest recruits having only recently pledged his international allegiance to the Melli Team and he’ll be looking to make a big first impression should the opportunity arise against Nigeria.
Eckert is widely recognized as a technically sound, physical forward who specializes in off-the-ball movement. He is capable of playing as a striker or dropping deeper to take on the role of an attacking midfielder.
The Standard Liege comes into the Iranian setup looking to prove his credentials on the international stage and a potential debut against the Super Eagles looks like the perfect platform for the 29-year-old striker to announce himself to the Iranian fans.
2. Alireza Jahanbakhsh
Another Belgian Pro League star in the Iranian setup, Jahanbakhsh will be one the Super Eagles defense need to keep a close eye on when both sides lock horns on Friday.
The FCV Dender right winger is capable of exploiting spaces on the flanks and producing dangerous crosses for his teammates to attack in the opposition box.
The Super Eagles’ starting left-back will need to be on his toes if he’s to deny Iran’s experienced winger any joy at the Amman International Stadium in Antalya.
1. Mehdi Taremi
Without any shadow of a doubt, Taremi is Iran’s talisman and he’ll be their go-to man in Friday’s match against the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
Taremi has enjoyed great form this season after leaving Serie A giants Inter Milan to join Greek Super League Champions Olympiacos last summer, with 20 goal contributions in 34 outings across all competitions to his name.
The Super Eagles defense will do well to significantly limit his time on the ball as the former FC Porto striker has the ability to punish any lapses with his creativity and ruthless finishing ability.
