Alex Iwobi breaks Kanu’s Super Eagles record

Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has written his name into Nigeria’s football history books after surpassing two-time African Player of the Year Nwankwo Kanu and the late legend Muda Lawal to become the Super Eagles’ fifth most-capped player of all time.

The 28-year-old earned his 87th international cap when he was named in Nigeria’s starting lineup for Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa.

The game which ended in a 1-1 and put Nigeria’s hope of qualifying for the World Cup on the line.

Iwobi had drawn level with the Nigerian greats following his appearance in the 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo last week, and now stands alone in fifth place on the all-time list.

Born in Lagos and raised in London, Iwobi represented England at U16, U17, and U18 levels before switching allegiance to Nigeria in 2015.

He made his senior debut on October 8, 2015, coming on for Ahmed Musa in a 2-0 friendly defeat against DR Congo in Belgium.

Since then, the former Arsenal star has been a consistent figure in the Nigerian midfield, featuring at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including Nigeria’s silver-medal finish in Côte d’Ivoire in 2023.

Iwobi has scored 10 goals for the Super Eagles, with his first arriving in a World Cup qualifier against Zambia on October 9, 2016.

Reflecting on his decision to represent Nigeria over England, Iwobi admitted it was not an easy choice but one he has never regretted.

“It was a difficult decision picking Nigeria over England,” Iwobi told Arsenal Player back in 2016.

“England did contact me before I played my first competitive match for Nigeria, asking if I wanted to play for them. I’m very proud to represent Nigeria but I would like to say thank you to England for the chance they gave me. The love Nigeria showed me… the fans are just crazy. I’m enjoying playing for them,” he added.

Iwobi is now just four caps away from equalling John Obi Mikel’s 91 international appearances and continues to close in on the all-time Super Eagles record held by Ahmed Musa, who has 111 caps.

He is also on course to become Nigeria’s most-capped player in Premier League history, adding another milestone to an already distinguished international career.