Super Eagles starting XI vs Iran: Akor Adams starts; Onyeka, Dele-Bashiru benched

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to take on the Islamic Republic of Iran in a friendly game at the Antalya Stadium in TUrkiye this afternoon, Afrik Foot reports.

While the Super Eagles are without household names like Victor Osimhen, Calvin Bassey and Ola Aina, Eric Chelle still named a relatively strong starting lineup against Iran.

Maduka Okoye returns to the starting eleven after nine months since his appearance in Nigeria’s draw against Russia last June.

Super Eagles starting XI vs Iran

Goalkeeper: Maduka Okoye

The Udinese goalkeeper starts his first game since Nigeria’s outing against Russia back in June 2025.

Stanley Nwabali’s decision to terminate his contract with Chippa United, to remain clubless, has now allowed Okoye to seal his spot as Nigeria’s first choice between the sticks moving forward.

Defenders

Bright Osayi-Samuel continues at right-back after a blistering AFCON 2025 campaign in Morocco, although he’s found minutes hard to come by with Birmingham City at club level.

Semi Ajayi and Slavia Prague’s Igoh Ogbu take up the centre-back positions, while Bruno Onyemaechi takes up the left-back spot.

Midfielders

Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi take up central positions, while Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze take charge of the flanks, respectively.

Attackers

Akor Adams leads the line in Victor Osimhen’s absence, while Ademola Lookman plays beside the Sevilla striker, although in a less inclined position.