The Super Eagles have returned to their winning form after securing a 2-1 victory against Iran during an international friendly in Antalya, Turkiye, this Friday.
Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams proved decisive in overcoming their Middle Eastern rivals.
The match, held at the home ground of Antalyaspor, saw Nigeria take an early lead within just six minutes.
Simon Moses cut inside from the left flank and successfully fired a shot past Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.
Although the former AFCON champions created several additional opportunities throughout the first half, they were unable to extend their advantage before the break.
In the 61st minute, Nigeria finally capitalized on their dominance. Akor Adams, the Sevilla forward standing in for the injured Victor Osimhen, clinicaly finished a pass from Atletico Madrid’s Ademola Lookman to make it 2-0.
Iran eventually managed to reduce the deficit when Mehdi Taremi scored from close range following a goalmouth scramble, but Nigeria held firm to secure the win.
This tournament marks the Super Eagles’ return to action since claiming the bronze medal at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
For this opening fixture, Coach Chelle opted for a formidable starting eleven, with the most notable inclusion being goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who stepped in for the absent Stanley Nwabali.
Nigeria is now set to face Jordan in their second match of the four-nation tournament this coming Tuesday.
