AFCON 2025
World Cup-bound Portugal secured a narrow win over Nigeria’s Super Eagles in their final warm-up match before heading to the United States.
Francisco Conceicao’s second-half strike made the difference as the hosts picked up a 2-1 win over Nigeria.
Roberto Martinez lined up a strong side with Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, João Neves, and Pedro Neves in the lineup.
Eric Chelle also put up a decent lineup in the absence of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman as Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Alex Iwobi and captain, Wilfred Ndidi made the starting eleven.
The Super Eagles started the high-profile fixture with confidence and almost took the lead but Akor Adams’ attempt missed the target narrowly.
Cristiano Ronaldo missed a glorious chance to score the opener after he was played through on goal by Nelson Semedo.
Portugal settled into the game afterwards, stretching play to the detriment of the Super Eagles as the midfield of Ndidi, Nnadi and Iwobi struggled to contain the fluidity of the hosts.
Pedro Neves put Portugal ahead with a fine finish inside the box off an assist from Manchester United”s defender Diogo Dalot.
Eric Chelle’s in-game changes paid off as Akor Adams won an aerial duel from Maduka Okoye’s long pass before finishing off the chance off a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru pass.
The second half was slow-paced, unlike the first as the Super Eagles contained their opponents while posing threats at the other end.
Maduka Okoye had a decent night in between the sticks as the Udinese goalkeeper made five saves in the match.
The match ended in favour of Portugal as they ended the Super Eagles’ run of not losing in regular time over their last 11 matches.
