Alex Iwobi turns 29 today, a significant milestone in a career that has been anything but quiet. Since making his debut for Nigeria in October 2015 against DR Congo, the Fulham midfielder has become a permanent fixture in the national team setup.
With 81 caps, a 2019 AFCON bronze medal, and a silver medal from the 2023 edition, Iwobi’s contributions are undeniable.
Yet, despite his consistency in the green and white, he’s often found himself the subject of divided opinion, criticized when the team falters, rarely celebrated when things go right. Still, Iwobi has had his moments. Glorious ones. Here are five times he reminded Nigerians of his worth.
Five times Alex Iwobi balled for the Super Eagles
Zambia suckered in Uyo (2017)
In a packed Godswill Akpabio Stadium, with the weight of World Cup qualification on the line, it was Iwobi who stepped up.
Just 10 minutes after coming on, he buried Shehu Abdullahi’s cutback to hand Nigeria a 1-0 win over Zambia and secure a ticket to the 2018 FIFA World Cup. The moment cemented him in Super Eagles folklore.
Cameroon cut down in Alexandria (2019)
When Nigeria met holders Cameroon in the Round of 16 at the 2019 AFCON, Iwobi delivered.
With the game delicately poised at 2-2, he latched onto a clever flick from Odion Ighalo in the 66th minute and finished coolly. It was the winner in a frenetic 3-2 match and another major tournament moment from the midfielder.
The Argentina comeback (2017)
A friendly it may have been, but Nigeria’s 4-2 comeback win over Argentina in Krasnodar was unforgettable, and Iwobi was at the heart of it.
Happy 29th birthday, Alex Iwobi 🧡
• FA Cup x1
• Community Shield x2
• 2016 CAF Team of the Year
• 2023 Everton Players’ Player of the Year pic.twitter.com/YvzV5g8OBU— 49th. (@the49thstreet) May 3, 2025
With Lionel Messi absent, Argentina took a 2-0 lead, but Nigeria responded. Iwobi scored twice, including a delightful nutmeg and finish past the keeper to complete the comeback. He was only 21 at the time, but played with the swagger of a seasoned star.
The midfield maestro vs São Tomé (2022)
In a 10-0 demolition of São Tomé and Príncipe, Iwobi didn’t score or assist, but his influence was everywhere.
Alongside Etebo, he dictated the game’s tempo, linking defence and attack with crisp passing and intelligent positioning.
It was a performance that reminded fans of his ability to control games from deep, even when the spotlight wasn’t on him.
Composure in Abuja vs Sierra Leone (2022)
In a nervy AFCON qualifier at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Nigeria went behind early to Sierra Leone. But Iwobi responded swiftly, combining with Moses Simon in a slick one-two before calmly slotting home the equaliser.
The Eagles went on to win 2-1, but it was Iwobi’s goal that steadied the ship when panic threatened.
