The Super Eagles lost 2-1 to Portugal in a match on Wednesday night. Francisco Conceicao scored a goal that denied Nigeria a good result.
Nigeria came to Leiria to build on their 2-2 draw against Poland week. They wanted to test themselves against a team like Portugal. Even though they played well they fell short against Portugal.
Portugal started strong. Scored first. Pedro Neto found space. Scored past the Nigerian goalkeeper.
The Super Eagles played better and better. They got their equalizer before halftime. Akor Adams ran strongly. Scored to make it 1-1.
Adams played a first half. He kept troubling the defense with his movements and physical play.
Both teams tried to win after the break. They created chances in a match. Nigeria looked like they could get a draw. Portugal looked for a goal to win.
That goal came late in the game. Francisco Conceicao scored a goal that beat the Nigerian goalkeeper. The Super Eagles did not have time to respond.
The Super Eagles are sad about the result.. Their coach, Eric Chelle is happy with how they played. They played well against an European team.
Portugal will now prepare for their 2026 FIFA World Cup match, against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Nigeria will learn from their friendly matches.
