The Super Eagles of Nigeria suffered a 2-1 defeat to FIFA World Cup-bound Portugal in an international friendly at the Estádio Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa on Wednesday night.
- +Akor Adams scores as Super Eagles lose narrowly to Portugal
Akor Adams cancelled out Pedro Neto’s first-half opener for the hosts, but Francisco Conceição struck the decisive goal in the second half to hand Portugal victory in a fiercely contested encounter.
Akor Adams cancelled out Pedro Neto’s first-half opener for the hosts, but Francisco Conceição struck the decisive goal in the second half to hand Portugal victory in a fiercely contested encounter.
The match served as Portugal’s final preparation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group F.
Nigeria, meanwhile, watched from the sidelines after failing to qualify for the tournament, having lost to DR Congo in the CAF playoff final and missing out on a second consecutive World Cup appearance.
Led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal entered the match as favourites, but the three-time African champions showed they were determined to provide a stern test for Roberto Martínez’s side.
Ronaldo had the game’s first clear opportunity in the ninth minute but failed to hit the target with only goalkeeper Maduka Okoye to beat. Moments later, Akor Adams came close for Nigeria but dragged his effort narrowly wide.
Portugal eventually broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute when Pedro Neto finished calmly past Okoye after being set up by Diogo Dalot following a swift attacking move.
Despite the defeat, the Super Eagles delivered an encouraging performance against one of Europe’s strongest sides. The loss was only the second suffered by Chelle in regulation time since taking charge of Nigeria 15 months ago.
