Portugal concluded their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Nigeria in an international friendly on Wednesday night.
The European side had to battle back after Nigeria cancelled out their first-half lead, with Francisco Conceicao’s late strike ultimately proving decisive in the warm-up game ahead of the tournament.
Portugal made a bright start and broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute through Pedro Neto. The winger was picked out by Diogo Dalot inside the penalty area and, left unmarked, calmly guided his effort into the bottom right corner to give his side a 1-0 lead.
The Super Eagles responded positively and found an equaliser eight minutes before the break. Fisayo Dele Bashiru delivered a precise pass into the box for Akor Adams, who showed composure to beat the goalkeeper with a low finish down the middle.
The goal brought Nigeria level at 1-1 and ensured the two sides went into half-time on equal terms.
With the match heading towards a draw, Francisco Conceicao produced a moment of brilliance in the 75th minute to restore Portugal’s lead.
The winger embarked on a superb solo run, weaving past defenders before unleashing a low shot from the edge of the area.
The result gives Portugal a confidence boost ahead of their World Cup campaign, where they will compete in Group K alongside Uzbekistan, Colombia and DR Congo.
Nigeria, meanwhile, will not be part of the tournament after failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.