Nigeria beat Iran 2-1 in their four-nation tournament opener in Antalya, Turkey as goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams gave Eric Chelle’s side a comfortable win, Footynaija.com reports.
It was a winning start for a squad still finding its shape under Chelle, with several players making strong cases for regular inclusion.
For Iran, a side already dealing with off-field uncertainty ahead of the World Cup this summer, it was another difficult evening with only Taremi’s late strike to show for their efforts.
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Here are the Super Eagles player ratings, based on match performance.
Maduka Okoye — 7/10
Solid on return. Had very little to do for most of the game but was alert when called upon. Taremi’s 68th-minute finish was unstoppable from close range and should not be held against him. A confident, composed comeback to international football after months away.
Bright Osayi-Samuel — 7/10
Energetic down the right all evening. Defensively sound and offered good width going forward without overextending himself.
Semi Ajayi — 6.5/10
Steady enough in the first half before being replaced at the break. Did not put a foot wrong but was not tested severely either.
Igoh Ogbu — 6.5/10
Similar story to Ajayi. Comfortable in the first half, brought off just after the hour mark as Chelle rotated.
Bruno Onyemaechi — 6.5/10
Quiet but disciplined on the left side of defence. Did his job without drawing attention either way.
Wilfred Ndidi — 7.5/10
Controlled the midfield tempo without fuss. Won his duels, kept things simple, and gave Nigeria a solid platform to play from. Exactly what you need from a captain in a first game back.
Alex Iwobi — 7/10
Worked hard between the lines and connected play well in both halves. Grew into the game as it progressed.
Samuel Chukwueze — 8/10
Nigeria’s most direct and dangerous player in the first half. His run and delivery created the opening goal for Simon, and he caused Iran problems consistently before being replaced after the hour.
Ademola Lookman — 8/10
Looked a class above for much of the game. His assist for Adams’ goal in the 52nd minute was precise and composed, and he kept probing until he was withdrawn in stoppage time. The standout performer.
Moses Simon — 7.5/10
Took his goal well in the seventh minute, finishing calmly from the centre of the box. Busy and direct throughout his time on the pitch before making way in the 69th minute.
Akor Adams — 7.5/10
Held the line well as the lone striker and was rewarded with a headed finish just after the restart. Sharp, purposeful, and showed he belongs at this level.
Substitutes
Emmanuel Fernandez — 6.5/10
Came on at half-time for Ajayi and handled the second half without issues. Settled quickly.
Chibuike Nwaiwu — 7/10
Marked his Super Eagles debut with a composed cameo. Did not look out of place, which in itself is an achievement on a first senior appearance.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru — 6.5/10
Came on and kept things ticking without taking over the game.
Paul Onuachu — 6/10
Limited time to make an impact. Held the ball up reasonably but the game was already winding down.
Chidera Ejuke — 6.5/10
Lively in his short stint. Showed some intent going forward without having enough time to really influence the result.
Frank Onyeka — N/A
Too brief an appearance to rate fairly.
