Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo declared his side ready for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after they defeated the Super Eagles of Nigeria 2-1 in an international friendly in Leiria on Wednesday night, June 10.
Cristiano Ronaldo featured as Portugal secured victory at the Estácio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa, overcoming a spirited Super Eagles display.
Pedro Neto opened the scoring for the hosts in the 23rd minute, but Nigeria responded before the break through Akor Adams, who finished calmly after being set up by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
Portugal regained control after the halftime break when Francisco Conceição found the net to seal the win for Roberto Martínez’s side.
Reacting after the match, Ronaldo expressed satisfaction with Portugal’s preparations ahead of the World Cup.
“The preparation is done. Eyes on the World Cup,”Ronaldo posted on Instagram alongside a photograph from the game.
Portugal will compete in Group K at the World Cup, where they are scheduled to face DR Congo, Colombia and Uzbekistan.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria produced a competitive performance and created several problems for the European side.
Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was among Nigeria’s standout performers, making a number of important saves to keep the scoreline close.
At the back, Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey impressed with composed displays, while Tochukwu Nnadi showed energy and maturity in midfield.
Adams also enhanced his growing reputation with a well-taken equaliser and remained a threat to the Portuguese defence before being replaced late in the game.
Alex Iwobi, making his 100th appearance for the Super Eagles, endured a relatively quiet evening, while Moses Simon struggled to impose himself before being substituted in the second half.
Substitutes Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika added stability in midfield after their introductions, but Nigeria could not find another breakthrough as Portugal held on for victory.
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