Iwobi, Simon close in on historic milestone reached by only three Super Eagles greats

Nigeria internationals Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon are closing in on a rare milestone of making 100 appearances for the Super Eagles, Afrik-Foot reports.

If they get there, they will join a very small and respected group of players who have reached what is often called the ‘centurion’ mark.

Both men are expected to feature again when Nigeria take on Jordan in an international friendly in Turkey. It is another chance for them to edge closer to history after the Super Eagles’ 2-1 win over Iran, where Simon was on the scoresheet and showed once again why he remains one of the team’s most trusted attackers.

Alex Iwobi is set to earn his 98th cap, while Moses Simon is on 97. That means both players are now within touching distance of the 100 mark.

Iwobi’s journey began back in October 2015 when he made his debut against DR Congo. He has since grown into one of Nigeria’s most reliable midfielders, known for linking play between defence and attack. Calm on the ball and clever with his movement, he has become a key figure across different coaches and systems.

Simon’s path started earlier, in March 2015, when he made his debut against Uganda. Since then, he has built a reputation as a direct, hard-working winger who can change games with pace and crossing. His early goal against Iran was another reminder of his attacking threat and his ability to deliver in key moments.

Both players have not only stayed relevant over the years but have also adapted to changes within the squad. That is one reason they are now so close to reaching a milestone only a few Nigerians have achieved.

Super Eagles elite club awaiting Iwobi and Simon

Reaching 100 caps for Nigeria is a special honour. So far, only three players have done it, and each of them holds a strong place in the country’s football history.

Ahmed Musa leads the way with 111 appearances, making him the most capped player Nigeria has ever had. His long career and leadership made him a key figure for many years before his international retirement. The former Leicester City forward announced his retirement from the Super Eagles in December 2025, on the eve of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Vincent Enyeama, one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers, also crossed the mark with 101 caps. Known for his reflexes and leadership, he was the backbone of Nigeria’s defence for over a decade.

Joseph Yobo was the first Nigerian to reach 100 caps. The former captain achieved the feat during the 2014 World Cup and set the standard for others to follow.

The former Everton captain, alongside Enyeama, helped Nigeria win the 2013 AFCON in South Africa.