Former Strasbourg winger lauds impressive Super Eagles debutants in Iran win

Former Nigeria and Strasbourg winger Simon Zenke has lauded Eric Chelle for giving two defenders a debut in the Super Eagles’ 2-1 win over Iran, Afrik Foot reports.

Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams were enough to secure another win for Nigeria, despite Mehdi Taremi pulling one back for Iran in the 67th minute.

Emmanuel Fernandez got a maiden call-up, while Chibuike Nwaiwu was brought in late to replace Calvin Bassey after the Fulham centre-back suffered a back injury.

Zenge pleased with Super Eagles debutants in Iran victory

Nwaiwu and Fernandez came on for Igoh Ogbu and Semi Ajayi at the start of the second half, and Zenge was pleased with what he saw from the debuting duo.

Following William Troost-Ekong’s retirement from the National team last December, Zenge believes having Nwaiwu and Fernandez in the squad is a sign of good things to come.

“I am happy with what I saw in the game against Iran, and the win was very good.

“I was particularly impressed with the two players – Fernandez and Nwaiwu – who came on as substitutes,” the 37-year-old said in quotes revealed by Footy Africa.

“The reality now is that Nigeria has a variety of options in central defence, and that is a very positive development.

“The coach now has a real selection dilemma in that area. I have always believed that the more quality players you have, the better.

“Nigeria now boasts a strong pool of centre-backs to choose from at any time.

“I do not envy the coach. It is a selection problem, but a good one. That department looks settled for many years to come,” Simon Zenge concluded.

Nigeria will play against Jordan on Tuesday, and the two youngsters will be hoping to play more minutes in Antalya, Turkiye.