Nigeria Vs Iran: Security fears shake Super Eagles friendly schedule

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) says it is closely watching the growing conflict involving Iran because it may affect the Nigeria national football team’s planned friendly matches during the March FIFA international window.

Nigeria was supposed to play in a four-nation tournament in Amman, Jordan. The Super Eagles were scheduled to play Iran national football team on March 27 and then play the Jordan national football team on March 31. The Costa Rica national football team was also supposed to take part in the tournament.

However, the plan is now uncertain because Iran has withdrawn from the competition due to rising political and military tensions in the Middle East.

Reports say the organisers may move the matches from the Middle East to Europe for safety reasons.

According to NFF Communications Director Ademola Olajire, discussions are still ongoing and officials are watching the situation closely.

He said the organisers of the tournament will decide whether the matches will be moved and where they will be played.

The crisis became more serious after the United States and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran on February 28. Iran responded with attacks across the region, leading to missile and drone strikes in several countries and the closure of some airspaces. This has started to affect sporting events in the region.

Because Iran pulled out, the four-team tournament may no longer happen. Organisers are now considering arranging a single friendly match between Nigeria and Jordan at a neutral venue in Europe.

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau said there is still time to decide what to do.

He explained that the federation will continue monitoring the situation over the next few weeks.

The Super Eagles still hope to play at least one friendly match during the March international window as they continue rebuilding the team and preparing for future competitions.