Kenya
Nigeria
Ghana
South Africa
United Kingdom
United States
India
Tanzania
Uganda
Zambia
Cameroon
Ivory CoastYobo Backs Iwobi to Set New Nigeria Appearance Record
Former captain Joseph Yobo believes Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi can reach 130 caps for Nigeria and break the all-time appearance record.
A Historic Milestone
Alex Iwobi recently became only the fourth player in history to earn 100 caps for Nigeria. The Fulham midfielder reached the landmark during a 2-1 friendly defeat against Portugal on June 10. He now joins an elite club alongside Vincent Enyeama, Ahmed Musa, and Joseph Yobo.
Musa currently holds the record with 110 appearances. However, Yobo believes the 30 year old Iwobi has plenty of time left to rewrite the record books.
Yobo thinks Iwobi can easily push past 130 caps if he stays healthy. He praised the midfielder's professional mindset and deep commitment to the national team.
The Path to 130 Caps
Iwobi has been a regular presence for Nigeria since making his senior debut against DR Congo in October 2015. Although he was raised in England and played for their youth teams, he chose to represent Nigeria. One of his biggest moments came in October 2017, when his goal against Zambia secured Nigeria's place at the 2018 World Cup.
Now, Iwobi has a chance to add to his century of caps. He has been selected in Eric Chelle's squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Nigeria will face Madagascar on Friday, followed by a match against Guinea-Bissau four days later.
Yobo explained that reaching such a milestone requires immense discipline. He noted that competition is fierce, and players must perform consistently to keep their spot.
More Centurions on the Horizon
Yobo knows exactly what it takes to play at this level for a long time. He was Nigeria's very first centurion, captaining the team to the 2013 AFCON title before retiring after the 2014 World Cup. Yobo recalled that in his playing days, players often faced tough decisions due to club versus country conflicts, but he always chose to represent his nation.
Another player is currently on the verge of reaching 100 caps. Paris FC forward Moses Simon has 99 appearances for Nigeria. He is also in the squad for the upcoming qualifiers and could become the fifth player to reach the milestone.
Yobo believes the Nigeria Football Federation should celebrate these achievements. He suggested that formal recognition would show younger players what they can achieve through dedication.
Where to go next
On this site
Note: we do not get paid for any link on this page.
Be the first to comment
Tell us who you think wins and why. Keep it friendly. Links are removed on their own.
Note: comments are the writer own opinion, not ours, and never a tip from us.
