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Moses Simon celebrates ‘Century cap with Super Eagles
Moses Simon described reaching 100 appearances for Nigeria as a “dream come true” after earning his landmark cap in the Super Eagles’ 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar in the opening match of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The 31-year-old winger reached the milestone at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday, coming on in the 61st minute for Akor Adams.
Simon’s 100th appearance was made even more memorable by Nigeria’s comeback win. The Super Eagles fell behind before debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored to secure all three points.
After the match, Simon was presented with a commemorative frame featuring a Super Eagles jersey bearing his name and the number 100.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, the veteran winger thanked the coaches who had given him opportunities, as well as his teammates, journalists, supporters, family and friends.
“Of course, this gave me joy and it’s a great privilege to play for the Super Eagles. It’s a dream come true,” Simon said.
“I never believed I would play 100 games, but I just believe one thing: whenever I’m called up, I will be there to give my 100 percent.”
Simon also credited the support and passion of Nigerians and the media for helping him maintain his motivation throughout his international career.
“The secret to my 100 caps is my family, my friends, Nigerians, journalists, because when I see the passion you journalists have for football, I’m ready to give everything,” he added.
Simon received his first Super Eagles invitation in March 2015 under interim head coach Daniel Amokachi. He made his international debut on March 25, coming on for Anthony Ujah in Nigeria’s friendly against Uganda.
He scored his first international goal later that year, finding the net in Nigeria’s 2-0 friendly victory over Niger Republic on September 8.
Since then, Simon has become a regular member of the national team and has scored 12 goals for Nigeria.
He was included in Nigeria’s preliminary squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia but missed the final squad after suffering an injury.
The winger has since represented Nigeria at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments — in 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025.
His appearance against Madagascar marked another significant milestone in an international career spanning more than a decade.
With Nigeria opening their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign with victory, Simon’s 100th cap added another memorable moment to a night that also saw two Super Eagles debutants score.