Forward Moses Simon has reached a new milestone with the Super Eagles, earning his 100th appearance for Nigeria in Friday’s 2-1 victory over Madagascar in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

The 31-year-old, who made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2015, came on in the 61st for Akor Adams to feature for the 100th time for the senior national team.

Debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor secured the victory for Nigeria against Madagascar after falling behind only 16 minutes in the match following a brilliant header by Clement Couturier to give the visitors the lead. 

Simon’s achievement meant the Paris FC winger became the fifth player to play 100 times for the Super Eagles after Ahmed Musa, Vincent Enyeama, Joseph Yobo and Alex Iwobi. 

His wife, Ibukun Moses-Simon, took to Instagram to celebrate her husband, saying he initially struggled to comprehend the magnitude of representing the national team but has now fully realised its significance.

“| remember the day you called me to give me the news that you have been called up to the Super Eagles. Back then, I didn’t fully understand what it meant being I was not a football fan or knew anything about football… I only knew the names JJ Okocha and Kanu Nwankwo.

“Looking back now, I fully understand what it means to be called a SUPER EAGLE, what it means to wear the green and white, and to represent your motherland,” Ms Moses-Simon said. 

She added, “100 caps as an eagle is no small feat! Over a decade plus repping the green and white, years of blood, sweat and tears for the country that you love so much. I cannot be more proud of you for coming this far!!!

“Congratulations my Guy on this milestone. Surely I know the kids are proud of you just as I am super proud of you. Congratulations once again babe on your 100 caps for the Super Eagles.”