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Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following their narrow 2–1 victory over Nigeria’s Super Eagles in an international friendly played on Wednesday night in Leiria.

The match took place at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa on June 10, where both sides delivered a competitive encounter that served as an important preparation fixture ahead of next year’s global tournament.

Portugal Strike First, Nigeria Respond Quickly

Portugal opened the scoring in the 23rd minute through Pedro Neto, who finished off a well-constructed attacking move to give the hosts an early advantage.

Nigeria, however, responded impressively before halftime. Akor Adams restored parity for the Super Eagles after connecting neatly with a pass from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, calmly slotting past the Portuguese defence to level the match.

The equaliser reflected Nigeria’s resilience and attacking intent as they matched Portugal for significant spells in the first half.

Conceição Delivers Winning Goal

After the break, Portugal increased their intensity and regained control of possession. Their pressure eventually paid off when Francisco Conceição scored the decisive goal that secured the win for Roberto Martínez’s side.

Despite Nigeria’s efforts to find another equaliser, Portugal managed to maintain their lead until the final whistle.

Ronaldo Reacts After Victory

Following the match, Ronaldo took to social media to express satisfaction with Portugal’s performance and preparation level.

“The preparation is done. Eyes on the World Cup,” he wrote on Instagram, signaling confidence ahead of the tournament.

Portugal are placed in Group K for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face DR Congo, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.

Although Nigeria lost the match, the Super Eagles delivered a spirited performance that produced several positives against a top European side.

Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye stood out with a series of important saves that prevented a heavier defeat, while defenders Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey were solid and composed under pressure.

In midfield, Tochukwu Nnadi impressed with his energy and discipline, helping Nigeria compete strongly in central areas.

Akor Adams continued his good form with a well-taken goal and posed a constant threat to the Portuguese defence before being substituted late in the game.

Alex Iwobi marked his 100th international appearance for Nigeria but had a relatively quiet outing, while Moses Simon struggled to make a major impact before being withdrawn in the second half.

Substitutes Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika added more stability in midfield, but Nigeria were unable to find a second goal as Portugal held on for victory.

Despite the defeat, Nigeria’s performance offered encouraging signs ahead of future international fixtures, particularly in terms of organization, intensity, and attacking combinations against elite opposition.