LAGOS — The Super Eagles are preparing to face Portugal in a high profile friendly this June, a fixture both sides view as important preparation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle said Portugal arranged the friendly specifically to test their squad against a different style of play before the tournament begins. “They wanted a tough test, and we plan to give them one,” Chelle said.
Ndidi Sends a Warning
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Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has already sent a message to Portugal ahead of the friendly, stating his side intends to prove their strength on the pitch despite Nigeria’s absence from this year’s World Cup.
“We respect Portugal, but we are not coming to make up numbers. We want to compete,” Ndidi said during a press session covered by local sports media.
Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, a result that continues to draw criticism from former players and pundits. Striker Terem Moffi recently admitted the team’s consecutive World Cup absences remain painful for the squad and its supporters.
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Despite missing the tournament, Chelle said friendlies like this one against Portugal still matter for squad development and continuity. He pointed to new call ups from the Nigeria Professional Football League as part of efforts to build depth for future qualifiers.
Portugal, preparing for a deep World Cup run, will use the friendly to fine tune their squad selection. Fans on both sides are expected to follow the match closely across television and streaming platforms in the coming days.
