Portugal Defeats Nigeria 2-1 in Friendly, Ronaldo Fails to Score

In a friendly match held as part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Portugal defeated Nigeria by a 2-1 margin. The match took place on Wednesday in Leiria, where Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceição scored the goals that secured the win for Portugal. For Nigeria, Chukwueze Austin Akor Adams managed to pull one back.

Midway through the game, Chelsea forward Pedro Neto put Portugal ahead, but before halftime, Adams equalized to bring Nigeria back into contention. In the 75th minute, Juventus winger Francisco Conceição scored the decisive goal, ensuring Portugal’s victory.

Portugal’s 41-year-old captain Cristiano Ronaldo had several promising chances during the match, but was unable to convert any into goals. This will be Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup appearance, though his presence has prompted some debate regarding its impact on coach Roberto Martínez’s strong squad. Following the inclusion of four Paris Saint-Germain players who recently won the Champions League, Coach Martínez started Vitinha, João Neves, and Bruno Fernandes in the lineup.

Portugal is scheduled to travel to Palm Beach, Florida, on Friday, where they will establish their training camp. Positioned in Group E, Portugal will begin their World Cup campaign on June 17 in Houston against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed by matches against Uzbekistan and Colombia.