Portugal 2-1 Nigeria: Conceição’s Late Strike Ends Super Eagles’ Unbeaten Run in Leiria
Portugal defeated Nigeria 2-1 in an international friendly at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria on Wednesday night, with Francisco Conceição scoring a decisive second-half winner to hand the Super Eagles their first defeat in regulation time under head coach Eric Chelle.
The encounter served as Portugal’s final preparation match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, while Nigeria produced another competitive display despite falling short against the European giants.
Portugal started brightly and dominated possession in the opening exchanges, eventually taking the lead in the 22nd minute through Pedro Neto.
The winger finished calmly after Diogo Dalot surged down the flank and delivered a low cross into the penalty area.
Nigeria responded positively and found an equaliser ten minutes before halftime through Akor Adams.
The forward showed strength and composure to beat his marker before combining neatly with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and firing beyond goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
The Super Eagles looked dangerous on the counterattack throughout the first half, despite Portugal controlling much of the ball possession.
Roberto Martínez made several changes after the interval, introducing fresh attacking options including João Félix, Bernardo Silva and João Cancelo as Portugal searched for a winner.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who started the game, endured a frustrating outing in front of goal before being substituted midway through the second half.
Nigeria goalkeeper Maduka Okoye produced a series of important saves to keep the visitors level, but Portugal eventually restored their advantage in the 74th minute.
Francisco Conceição cut inside from the right wing and unleashed a low left-footed effort that travelled through a crowded box before finding the far corner to seal victory for the hosts.
Portugal managed the closing stages comfortably, maintaining possession and limiting Nigeria’s attacking opportunities as they secured a morale-boosting win before the World Cup.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria showed flashes of attacking quality and resilience against one of Europe’s top sides, offering encouraging signs ahead of future competitive fixtures.
Match Statistics
Possession: Portugal 62% – 38% Nigeria
Shots: Portugal 13 – 5 Nigeria
Shots on Target: Portugal 7 – 2 Nigeria
Corners: Portugal 3 – 2 Nigeria
Fouls: Portugal 12 – 20 Nigeria
Goalscorers
Pedro Neto (22’)
Akor Adams (36’)
Francisco Conceição (74’)
