Five players to watch in Nigeria’s friendlies against Iran and Jordan

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to return to action for the first time since their third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on January 17.

Afrik-Foot reports that the three-time African champions will lock horns with Iran and Jordan in two crucial preparatory fixtures ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

With Iran and Jordan ranked 20th and 64th in the world respectively, both nations are expected to provide a stern test for the Super Eagles.

Ahead of these friendly games, Afrik-Foot highlights five key players—including Nigerian stars—who are expected to shine.

1. Mehdi Taremi (Iran)

Iran captain Mehdi Taremi in action. (Photo by Imago)

The Olympiacos striker remains one of the greatest exports from the Gulf nation. Having featured for some of the world’s biggest clubs, including Inter Milan and FC Porto, the 33-year-old brings immense experience to the pitch.

Taremi is an indispensable part of coach Amir Ghalenoei’s tactical setup, often operating as a lone striker or in a creative role just behind the front line.

He excels at dropping deep to link play and is lethal in tight spaces. As Iran’s third-highest all-time goalscorer with 54 goals in 100 caps, his elite positioning makes him a constant threat.

2. Mohammadmohebbi (Iran)

Mohammad Mohebbi 21 of Iran is celebrating with his teammates after scoring a goal during the AFC Asian Cup 2023 Quarter-Final match between Japan and Iran — Mohammad Mohebbi of Iran. Copyright: ImagoxNoushadxThekkayilx

Mohammadmohebbi is another Iranian attacker capable of posing a serious challenge to the Nigerian defense. The 28-year-old Sepahan winger has become a mainstay for Team Melli.

Known for his explosive pace and positive directness on the ball, Mohebbi is a player who constantly looks to drive into the final third.

His ability to weigh in with crucial goals makes him a dangerous asset that the Super Eagles backline cannot afford to ignore.

3. Ali Olwan (Jordan)

The Al-Sailiya forward is the undisputed main man for the Jordanian national team. At just 25 years old, Olwan is already second on his country’s all-time scoring list with 27 goals in 57 appearances.

The Qatar-based forward is highly versatile, capable of playing on either wing or as a central striker. Quick, technical, and possessed of a clinical eye for goal, Olwan is the player coach Jamal Sellami will be banking on to dismantle the Nigerian defense.

4. Paul Onuachu (Nigeria)

With Victor Osimhen sidelined, the spotlight falls on Paul Onuachu. The Trabzonspor star is currently one of the most in-form strikers in world football, having enjoyed a prolific Süper Lig campaign in Turkey.

The towering marksman has recorded a remarkable 23 goals and two assists in 27 games for the Black Sea Storm this season.

Deadly in the air and surprisingly nimble with his feet, the 31-year-old will be coach Eric Chelle’s primary target man. Expect him to be a handful for both the Iranian and Jordanian center-backs.

5. Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)

Ademola Lookman in action for the Super Eagles of Nigeria. Photo by IMAGO

Atletico Madrid star Ademola Lookman is expected to shoulder much of the creative burden in the final third. Arguably Nigeria’s most consistent attacking talent in Europe this season, Lookman will be looking to replicate the scintillating form he showed at the 2025 AFCON.

His ability to navigate congested areas, combined with his world-class dribbling and finishing, will be on full display. After proving his pedigree on the continental stage earlier this year, Lookman enters this break as the man most likely to provide the spark for the Super Eagles.