Nigeria’s Super Falcons battled to a 0-0 draw against Portugal in an international friendly played on Monday in Amadora, as part of their ongoing preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
This latest fixture marks the second-ever meeting between the two sides. Their first encounter in 2021 ended in an entertaining 3-3 draw, but this time, both defences held firm in a more tactical showdown.
Match Highlights:
• Portugal dominated the first half, but failed to break through a solid Nigerian defence.
• The game turned more in Nigeria’s favour in the second half following the triple substitution that introduced Ifeoma Onumonu, Halimotu Ayinde, and Ashleigh Plumptre, replacing Esther Echegini, Rofiat Imuran Usani, and Rinsola Babajide.
• Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie stood out with multiple vital saves, maintaining the Super Falcons’ clean sheet and showcasing why she remains one of Africa’s best shot-stoppers.
Context and What’s Next:
Before this match, Portugal had been on a four-match losing streak, and although they showed improvement, they couldn’t find the net. Nigeria entered the match on the back of a 2-0 victory over Cameroon on June 3 and continued their solid run with another positive result.
Coach Justin Madugu’s squad will continue their build-up to the continental showpiece with another high-profile friendly against Ghana’s Black Queens on Sunday, June 29.
The Super Falcons, nine-time African champions, are fine-tuning their squad and strategy with these tough international fixtures to prepare for a strong WAFCON campaign later this year.
