Uncertainty surrounds Super Eagles’ friendly against Iran

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Super Eagles’ scheduled friendly against Iran in Amman later this month now faces serious uncertainty, Afrik Foot reports.

This is as a result of escalating tensions in the Middle East, which cast doubt over the Iranian team’s participation.

Nigeria was set to open the Four-Nation Invitational Tournament on 27 March against Iran at the Amman International Stadium.

Francis Uzoho, Paul Onuachu, Ryan Alebiosu, Calvin Bassey, Raphael Onyedika, Victor Osimhen,Moses Simon, Igoh Ogbu, Samuel Chukwueze, Bruno Onyemaechi and of Nigeria during the AFCON match between Uganda and the Super Eagles
Super Eagles. Photo by IMAGO

They were then to face hosts Jordan on 31 March, while Costa Rica and the host nation were also set to compete.

However, recent developments have put the Iran fixture in jeopardy.

World Cup uncertainty adds pressure on Super Eagles‑Iran friendly

Per ESPN, Iran’s football authorities have indicated that the team’s involvement in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, and by extension its March friendly programme, may be in doubt due to security and diplomatic complications.

Iran players of qatar celebrates after winning the FIFA World Cup 2026 AFC Asian Qualifiers group A third round match between Qatar and Iran
Iran players of qatar celebrates after winning the FIFA World Cup 2026 AFC Asian Qualifiers group A third round match between Qatar and Iran. Copyright: Imago/NOUSHADx

With the World Cup set to be co-hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, officials in Tehran say logistical challenges amid regional unrest make international travel increasingly complicated.

The Nigeria Football Federation and tournament organisers have yet to issue a formal statement on the status of the match, leaving fans and players awaiting clarification.

Bright Osayi-Samuel in action for the Super Eagles
Bright Osayi-Samuel in action for the Super Eagles. Photo by IMAGO

Meanwhile, preparations continue for Nigeria’s clash against Jordan, which remains scheduled, even as speculation grows over the potential rescheduling or cancellation of the opening game.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Editor Site Coordinator

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.