Moses Simon celebrates ‘dream come true’ after reaching 100 Nigeria caps

Moses Simon said earning his 100th appearance for Nigeria was a “dream come true” after helping the Super Eagles begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with victory.

The 31-year-old winger reached the milestone during Nigeria’s 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar in their opening Group L fixture at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, on Friday.

Simon came on in the 61st minute, replacing Akor Adams, to make his century of appearances for the national team.

The occasion was made more memorable by Nigeria’s fightback, with debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scoring to secure all three points for the Super Eagles.

After the match, Simon was presented with a commemorative frame containing a Super Eagles jersey bearing his name and the number 100.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, the former Nantes winger thanked the coaches who had selected him, his team-mates, journalists, supporters and everyone else who had played a part in his international career.

“First of all, I would like to say thanks to the coach for the opportunity, thanks to every coach that gave me this opportunity and also thanks to you all, the journalists,” Simon said.

He admitted that he had not expected to reach the landmark when he began playing for Nigeria.

“Of course, this gave me joy and it’s a great privilege to play for the Super Eagles. It’s a dream come true. I never believed I would be there. 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 his family, friends, fellow Nigerians and the media for helping him sustain the motivation needed to represent his country for more than a decade.

“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’s Nigeria career

Simon received his first Super Eagles call-up in March 2015 under interim head coach Daniel Amokachi.

He made his debut on 25 March 2015, replacing Anthony Ujah in a friendly against Uganda. His first international goal came several months later, when he scored in Nigeria’s 2-0 friendly win over Niger Republic on 8 September 2015.

He has since become a regular member of the national team and has scored 12 goals for Nigeria.

Simon was named in Nigeria’s preliminary squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, but an injury ruled him out of the final selection.

The veteran winger has also represented Nigeria at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments: 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025.

His appearance against Madagascar brought another significant milestone to an international career that has now lasted beyond 10 years. Nigeria’s victory, plus goals from two debutants, gave the Super Eagles further cause for celebration.

The report was published by BSNSports.com.ng. Niyi Busari is the Publisher and CEO of BSN Sports Concept.