OptaJoe: Iwobi Hits Milestone with First AFCON Assists

According to OptaJoe, Alex Iwobi became only the second Nigerian player on record since 2010 to provide two assists in a single Africa Cup of Nations match, achieving the feat against Tanzania on matchday one.

The first to do so was Chelsea legend, Mikel Obi, who managed it against Mali in February 2013. For Iwobi, the achievement was particularly significant as it marked his first-ever AFCON assists, coming on his 15th start in 19 appearances at the tournament.

Iwobi now stands just one appearance away from joining some of Nigeria’s elite group of players who have featured at least 20 times in the competition.

That list includes but not limited to Nwankwo Kanu with 27 appearances, Mikel with 22, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha with 22, and Mudashiru Lawal with 22.

His growing presence on the continental stage highlights his importance to the Super Eagles and places him firmly in the company of Nigeria’s greats.