Alex Iwobi has explained why he does not score many goals or provide as many assists when playing for the Super Eagles.
Softfootball understands that the Fulham midfielder has often been asked to play a more controlled role for Nigeria, unlike at club level where he has more freedom to attack and express himself.
Iwobi made his Super Eagles debut in 2015 and has since scored 10 goals in 81 appearances for the national team.
His last goal for Nigeria came in 2022, when he scored the equaliser in a 2-1 comeback win against Sierra Leone during the qualifiers for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Although he has not scored regularly for the Super Eagles, Iwobi has produced some important moments in the national colours. He scored the crucial goal that gave Nigeria a 1-0 win over Zambia and sealed qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
He also scored in Nigeria’s 2-1 away win against Zambia in the opening match of the 2018 World Cup qualifiers and later bagged a brace as the Super Eagles came from two goals down to beat Argentina 4-2 in a friendly in Russia.
This season at Fulham, Iwobi has scored one goal and provided one assist in seven Premier League appearances.
Speaking with Official54fx, Iwobi explained that his role for club and country has not always been the same. At national team level, he said he was often asked to keep possession, control the midfield, and allow the attackers to focus on creating and scoring.
However, he added that under Austine Eguavoen, he has been encouraged to move forward more and contribute in attacking areas.
Iwobi will now hope to help Nigeria beat Libya in Friday’s 2025 AFCON qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
After the first leg, the Super Eagles will travel to Benghazi for the return fixture on Tuesday, October 15.
The former Arsenal and Everton star will also be aiming to feature in his fourth AFCON tournament after representing Nigeria in 2019, 2021, and 2023.
