The Super Falcons of Nigeria battled to a goalless draw against Portugal on Monday evening in a tightly fought international friendly in Lisbon — their second-to-last match ahead of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Head coach Justin Madugu fielded a strong starting XI, including star goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, flanked in defence by Osinachi Ohale, Miracle Usani, Shukurat Oladipo, and Tosin Demehin. The midfield trio of Toni Payne, Christy Ucheibe, and Jennifer Echegini linked play to a frontline led by Rasheedat Ajibade, Francisca Ordega, and Rinsola Babajide.
The encounter gave Madugu a critical opportunity to assess tactics and player cohesion against a disciplined Portuguese side known for their structured play and high pressing. Though Portugal dominated possession for large stretches, they were unable to break down a well-organised Nigerian defence, with Nnadozie producing several sharp saves to keep the hosts at bay.
Portugal came out aggressively and forced early pressure, creating a flurry of chances midway through the first half. However, a combination of resolute defending and alert goalkeeping kept them from converting.
While the Falcons had limited offensive opportunities in the first half, they maintained their shape and absorbed pressure effectively. Ajibade and Babajide posed threats down the flanks, and midfielders Ucheibe and Echegini worked hard to disrupt Portugal’s rhythm.
After the break, the Nigerian side played with more intent, pressing higher and injecting urgency into their attack. The match’s standout moment came in the 80th minute when Ordega nearly broke the deadlock with a clever chip that beat the Portuguese keeper but crashed against the crossbar.
Portugal responded with a wave of substitutions, introducing Ana Capeta, Tatiana Pinto, Stephanie Ribeiro, Andreia Faria, and Bárbara Lopes in a bid to change the tide. But Nigeria held firm, with Ohale and Demehin putting in a tireless shift in the heart of the defence.
Nnadozie, who had multiple injury scares in the second half, soldiered on through visible discomfort to complete the match, reaffirming her importance to the team’s WAFCON title hopes. The medical staff will monitor her closely in the coming days.
The result leaves the Super Falcons with positives to build on as they approach the 2025 WAFCON, where they are drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana. Nigeria opens its campaign against Tunisia on Saturday, July 6 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
This WAFCON marks Madugu’s first major tournament in charge following the departure of former coach Randy Waldrum. The Falcons will next face long-time rivals Ghana in a friendly match dubbed the ‘Jollof Derby’ on June 29 in Morocco — their final tune-up before the tournament kicks off.
Nigeria, the most successful team in the competition’s history, is aiming to win a record-extending tenth continental title, having lifted the trophy nine times since the tournament’s inception in 1998.
