The Super Falcons of Nigeria battled Portugal to a 0–0 draw in a closely contested international friendly on Monday evening in Lisbon, continuing their preparations for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Head coach Justin Madugu fielded a strong lineup for the penultimate warm-up match, with Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal and a backline of Osinachi Ohale, Miracle Usani, Shukurat Oladipo, and Tosin Demehin. The midfield featured Toni Payne, Christy Ucheibe, and Jennifer Echegini, while Rasheedat Ajibade, Francisca Ordega, and Rinsola Babajide led the attack.
The match served as a tactical test for Madugu, who is steering the team into its first major competition under his leadership. Portugal dominated possession in the first half but were unable to convert their advantage into goals, thanks to solid Nigerian defending and key saves from Nnadozie.
Despite limited attacking chances, the Falcons maintained their shape and discipline. Ajibade and Babajide offered moments of threat down the wings, while Echegini and Ucheibe worked to link play through the midfield.
Nigeria returned from the break with more intent, pressing higher up the pitch and engaging Portugal more aggressively. Their best opportunity came in the 80th minute when Ordega spotted the Portuguese goalkeeper off her line and attempted a lobbed effort from distance, only for the ball to strike the crossbar.
Portugal introduced fresh legs in the second half, including Ana Capeta and Tatiana Pinto, but Nigeria’s defence remained resolute, with Ohale and Demehin putting in standout performances.
Nnadozie, despite suffering three injury scares in the second half, continued in goal and played through visible discomfort. Her resilience was a major boost for Nigeria, though her condition will be monitored closely ahead of the tournament.
The Super Falcons now turn their attention to a final warm-up match against arch-rivals Ghana on June 29 in Morocco — a fixture dubbed the “Jollof Derby.” They begin their WAFCON campaign in Group B on July 6 against Tunisia, with further group matches against Algeria and Botswana.
Nigeria is seeking to win a record-extending 10th continental title, having claimed the trophy nine times since the competition’s inception in 1998.
