Portugal opened the scoring against Nigeria in this Wednesday’s international friendly, in Leiria. In the 23rd minute, Diogo Dalot invaded from the right and crossed behind. Free from marking inside the area, Pedro Neto dominated and finished into the right corner of the Nigerian goalkeeper. It’s 1-0 for the home team.
The game started balanced, with Portugal exchanging passes in midfield in search of spaces. After two minutes, Cristiano Ronaldo received a good pass at the edge of the area and took a long shot, but the ball went too high and went over the end line. Nigeria had a goal kick.
At five minutes, Bruno Fernandes touched the ball with his hand and committed a foul. Nigeria charged the infraction, but without great danger. Shortly after, at seven, the Nigerians had a corner taken quickly.
Portugal continued to have more possession of the ball. In the ninth minute, Cristiano Ronaldo had another clear chance. He left the marking behind, received it inside the area and shot, but the ball went to the left of the goal. Goal kick for Nigeria.
In the 10th minute, Akor Adams appeared well in the Nigerian box, but his inaccurate shot went wide. At 13, Wilfred Ndidi took a long shot for Nigeria. The ball went well over the crossbar and Portugal had the goal kick.
Mateo Busquets, the referee, awarded Tochukwu Nnadi a free kick in the 14th minute after the Nigerian player hit the opponent’s legs. Portugal took the free kick without risking a shot directly at goal. At 15, Calvin Bassey clearly grabbed a Portuguese attacker and committed another foul.
In the 18th minute, Portugal calmly exchanged passes, maintaining possession and waiting for gaps in the Nigerian block. Bruno Onyemaechi received a yellow card in the 19th minute after a harsh foul that tested the referee’s patience.
Pedro Neto’s goal in the 23rd minute changed the situation. Diogo Dalot’s assist exploited the back of the Nigerian defense well. So far, the Portuguese team has dominated offensive actions.
Where to watch live
The friendly will continue to be broadcast on sports channels and streaming platforms that cover international friendlies.
