Super Eagles end middle east friendlies without defeat

Super Eagles end middle east friendlies without defeat

. Forced to 2-2 draw by World Cup bound Jordan

FIFA World Cup-bound Jordan had to dig into the deepest part of their pouch to avoid defeat against the Super Eagles in an international friendly match played in Antalya, Turkey on Tuesday night.

Three-time African champions Nigeria wrapped up their March international window with a pulsating 2-2 draw against the Jordan senior men team at the Mardan Sports Complex. Al-Nashama, currently ranked 64th in the world and boasting a formidable recent record, showed their quality early. In the 17th minute, a well-rehearsed free-kick routine caught the Nigerian defense off-guard, allowing star man Mousa Tamari to fire Jordan into the lead.

Nigeria thought they had restored parity just six minutes later when Raphael Onyedika hammered home a clever cut-back from Moses Simon, but the strike was controversially ruled out by the officials. Undeterred, the Super Eagles equalized in the 30th minute. Captain for the night, Moses Simon, celebrating a landmark 97th appearance showcased his predatory instincts yet again. After Ademola Lookman’s initial effort was blocked, the Paris FC forward reacted quickest to slot home with a delightful left-footed finish, marking his second goal in as many games this month.

The turnaround was completed four minutes before the break. Bright Osayi-Samuel delivered a pinpoint cross that found Emmanuel Fernandez who was making his full debut. The Glasgow Rangers of Scotland man showed remarkable composure to control and fire a left-footed strike into the net, handing Nigeria the lead heading into the interval.

The second period took a physical turn. In the 57th minute, goalkeeper Francis Uzoho was forced off following a clearance, making way for Adebayo Adeleye. Seeking to consolidate the midfield, Eric Chelle introduced veterans Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi for Yira Sor and Raphael Onyedika. For Iwobi, the substitution marked his 98th cap for Nigeria, edging him closer to the exclusive "Century Club." However, Jordan’s evolution as a global footballing force was evident as they pushed for an equalizer, which eventually arrived in the 77th minute.

In a final push for victory, Nigeria handed a senior debut to Philip Otele, who replaced Frank Onyeka, while Samuel Chukwueze came on for Simon. The closing stages were marred by late tension, resulting in a straight red card for Alex Iwobi.

Despite the draw, the window provided vital insights for the coaching staff. With Jordan having lost only one of their last five matches prior to tonight, the stalemate serves as a testament to the competitive nature of the fixture as the Super Eagles continue their preparations for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.