Former Nigeria youth international Simon Zenke in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has expressed optimism about the future of the Super Eagles under head coach Eric Chelle, following Nigeria’s impressive 2-1 victory over Iran in an international friendly in Antalya.
The former AJ Auxerre forward was particularly encouraged by the performances of two debutant centre-backs, Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu, who both made strong impressions after coming off the bench.
Nigeria took control of the game early, with Moses Simon opening the scoring in the first half, before Akor Adams doubled the lead after the break. Iran managed to pull one back late on, but it was largely a comfortable outing for the Super Eagles in their first match since the Africa Cup of Nations.
Full-time#IRNNGA #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/551p4UFyMm
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 27, 2026
Fernandez replaced Semi Ajayi, while Nwaiwu came on for Igoh Ogbu in the second half, as Chelle rotated his defensive options and handed opportunities to emerging talents.
Reacting to the performance, Zenke highlighted the growing depth in Nigeria’s defensive ranks, noting that increased competition can only strengthen the team ahead of future tournaments.
“I am happy with what I saw in the game against Iran, and the win was very good. I was particularly impressed with the two players – Fernandez and Nwaiwu – who came on as substitutes,” Zenke exclusively told Footy-Africa.
“The reality now is that Nigeria has a variety of options in central defence, and that is a very positive development. The coach now has a real selection dilemma in that area. I have always believed that the more quality players you have, the better. Nigeria now boasts a strong pool of centre-backs to choose from at any time.”
Chibuike Nwaiwu reflects on his first call-up and making his senior debut in today’s win over Iran, a moment years in the making.#SoarSuperEagles #IRNNGA pic.twitter.com/wcMWjWu1pa
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 27, 2026
Zenke also pointed to the experience of established names like Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, while highlighting the return of Benjamin Frederick from injury as another boost.
He added that Ogbu has remained reliable whenever called upon, further underlining the strength in depth:
“I do not envy the coach. It is a selection problem, but a good one. That department looks settled for many years to come.”
Following the win over Iran, Nigeria will face Jordan on March 31 in their final game of the international window, as preparations continue for upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
