Portugal Edge Super Eagles 2-1 In World Cup Warm-Up Clash

Nigeria's Super Eagles suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Portugal on Wednesday night in an international friendly played at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.

The encounter formed part of both teams preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Portugal using the match as one of their final tune-up fixtures before the global tournament.

The hosts drew first blood in the 23rd minute after winger Pedro Neto found space inside Nigeria's penalty area and calmly fired past the goalkeeper to hand Portugal an early advantage. Despite the setback, the Super Eagles responded positively and gradually worked their way back into the contest.

Their efforts paid off in the 37th minute when Akor Adams produced a powerful run before finishing emphatically to restore parity and silence the home supporters.

The equaliser gave Nigeria renewed confidence as they battled toe-to-toe with a Portuguese side boasting several world-class players, including captain Cristiano Ronaldo.

The second half remained fiercely contested, with both sides creating chances in search of a winner.

As the match appeared destined to end in a draw, Portugal found the decisive breakthrough through Francisco Conceição.

The talented attacker cut inside from the flank and curled a superb effort into the net, leaving the Nigerian goalkeeper with no chance and sealing victory for Roberto Martínez's men.

The result ends Nigeria's June international window on a disappointing note after the Super Eagles had earlier secured a 2-2 draw against Poland.

For Portugal, the victory provides a morale boost ahead of the World Cup, where they will face Colombia, Uzbekistan and DR Congo in Group K.

While Nigeria will take positives from parts of the performance, the defeat also highlights areas requiring improvement as the team continues preparations for future international assignments.