The Nigeria Football Federation says it is monitoring the growing tensions involving Iran as uncertainty surrounds the Super Eagles’ planned international friendlies during the March FIFA window.
Nigeria had been scheduled to participate in a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman. The Super Eagles were expected to face the Iran national football team on March 27 before playing the Jordan national football team on March 31, with the Costa Rica national football team also set to take part.
However, the tournament has been thrown into doubt after Iran reportedly withdrew from the competition due to rising political and military tensions in the Middle East. Reports suggest organisers are considering moving the matches from the region to Europe as a precaution.
Reacting to the development, NFF Director of Communications Ademola Olajire said the federation was closely following the situation while discussions continue with the organisers.
“The NFF and the organisers are watching developments with keen interest,” Olajire said.
He added that if the matches are eventually moved to Europe, it would be the responsibility of the tournament organisers to decide on a new venue.
The crisis escalated after a joint offensive by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28, which triggered retaliatory attacks across parts of the Middle East. Missile and drone strikes in several areas have led to airspace closures and heightened security concerns, affecting travel and international events, including sports.
With Iran’s withdrawal, the original four-team tournament format is now uncertain. Organisers are reportedly considering arranging a single friendly match between Nigeria and Jordan at a neutral venue in Europe if the mini-competition cannot go ahead as planned.
President of the NFF, Ibrahim Gusau, earlier said the federation still had time to decide on the best option.
“We are monitoring the situation for now, we still have three weeks,” Gusau said.
The Super Eagles are keen to play at least one friendly during the March international window as they continue preparations for upcoming competitive fixtures, including the Africa Cup of Nations.
