Former Nigeria international Friday Ekpo has backed the Super Eagles’ 2-1 win over Iran in Antalya as a positive step in the team’s rebuilding process, while urging the side not to repeat the failures that cost them a place at the World Cup, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria beat Iran through goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams, with Mehdi Taremi’s late strike the only blemish on an otherwise controlled performance.
It was the first time the squad had played together since their third-place finish at AFCON 2025 in Morocco, and Ekpo, speaking to Completesports.com, was encouraged by what he saw.
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“This is a good victory for the Super Eagles against Iran considering the fact that this is the first time the players are playing together after the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations,” he said.
“This victory will definitely help boost the confidence of the players now that the rebuilding process has kicked started.”
Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup remains a painful chapter, having lost on penalties to DR Congo in the African playoff stage in Rabat. Ekpo was openly critical at the time, and his words now carry a sense of urgency about not allowing history to repeat itself.
“We need to build on what we have at the moment,” he said.
“I am glad that the rebuilding process has started ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. We don’t want a repeat of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, so the earlier we start the process, the better for the national team.”
Ekpo also turned his attention to Nigeria’s final tournament fixture, calling on Eric Chelle’s side to carry the same energy into their clash against Jordan on March 31.
“I expect more of this performance when the team confront Jordan in their final game,” he added.
