Alex Iwobi has singled out the two centre-backs who made their Nigeria debuts in the second half of the 2-1 win over Iran, saying they held their own in a moment that could easily have unravelled for less experienced players, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria went into the match against World Cup-bound Iran already missing Calvin Bassey, their most reliable defensive option. Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu, both uncapped going into the window, were thrown into the same defensive partnership in the second half as Chelle navigated a thin squad and an injury setback during the game itself.
The situation required them to find their feet quickly against opposition with far more at stake on the international calendar.
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Speaking on the Alexander Yaa Digg podcast, Iwobi made a point of acknowledging what the two new faces delivered.
“Credit to Iran. They’re a good, solid team,” he said, as revealed by Daily Post.
“Credit to us, we got the two goals we needed. Shout out to the two centre-backs who played the second half on their debuts. They did well. they did solid. It was a good performance. We won, and that gives us a confidence boost.”
Iwobi himself was one of the more influential figures during the Iran game, described as the glue in midfield, dictating tempo and breaking lines with his passing throughout. His awareness of what the debutants contributed in the same match adds weight to the praise.
The nod to Fernandez and Nwaiwu also reflects a wider reality for the Super Eagles. With Bassey absent and William Troost-Ekong retired, Chelle was actively building his defensive depth chart, and both players gave him reasons to feel better about the options available.
