As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup gathers momentum, the Super Eagles are set to lock horns with Portugal in a high‑stakes friendly that will serve as the final dress rehearsal for both sides.
Nigeria arrives in Europe riding a five‑match unbeaten run that includes a gritty 2‑2 draw with Poland and comfortable 3‑0 and 2‑0 victories over Jamaica and Zimbabwe respectively.
Coach Éric Chelle has opted to reshape the side, promoting a younger cohort while navigating a slew of absences that have stripped the attack of its two biggest weapons.
Striker Victor Osimhen and winger Ademola Lookman, both pivotal in recent campaigns, have been ruled out, as has injury‑plagued defender Igoh Ogbu and club‑rested Femi Azeez.
Nevertheless, the squad gains a boost with veteran midfielder Wilfred Ndidi returning to lead the team as captain, while Alex Iwobi prepares to notch his 100th international appearance.
A Test of Depth
The likely starting XI features a mix of seasoned heads and emerging talent, with goalkeeper Okoye, defenders Bassey and Fernandez, midfielders Onyeka and Ndidi, and forwards Moffi and Paul Onuachu expected to shoulder the offensive burden.