The Super Falcons of Nigeria played out a goalless draw against Portugal on Monday evening in Lisbon, in a closely contested international friendly — their second-to-last warm-up match ahead of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, Modzero Sport reports.
Interim head coach Justin Madugu fielded a strong lineup for the encounter, with Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal, supported in defense by Osinachi Ohale, Miracle Usani, Shukurat Oladipo, and Tosin Demehin. The midfield trio of Toni Payne, Christy Ucheibe, and Jennifer Echegini controlled the center of the park, while Rasheedat Ajibade, Francisca Ordega, and Rinsola Babajide led the attack.
The fixture provided Madugu a vital opportunity to assess his tactical system and squad cohesion against a well-drilled Portuguese team. Portugal controlled large stretches of possession, particularly in the first half, but failed to convert their dominance into goals, thanks to resolute defending and standout saves from Nnadozie.
The hosts began the match with high intensity, pressing the Nigerian defense early. By the 24th minute, Portugal had created multiple scoring chances, but they were thwarted by sharp reflexes from Nnadozie and disciplined defending by the Super Falcons.
Although Nigeria struggled to create clear openings in the opening 45 minutes, the team stayed compact and disciplined, frustrating the Portuguese attackers. Ajibade and Babajide occasionally sparked attacking transitions from the wings, while Echegini and Ucheibe sought to establish control in midfield.
After the break, Nigeria returned with renewed urgency, pressing higher and engaging more physically. The match became more balanced as the Falcons began to disrupt Portugal’s rhythm and push for opportunities of their own.
The closest Nigeria came to breaking the deadlock was in the 80th minute when Francisca Ordega attempted a brilliant long-range chip after spotting the Portuguese goalkeeper off her line. Her audacious effort beat the keeper but struck the crossbar and bounced away — the closest either side came to scoring.
Portugal responded with several second-half substitutions, introducing Ana Capeta, Tatiana Pinto, Stephanie Ribeiro, Andreia Faria, and Bárbara Lopes in a bid to find a breakthrough. However, Nigeria’s defense — led by Ohale and Demehin — held firm, cutting off key passes and limiting clear chances.
Nnadozie, who suffered three separate injury scares in the second half, remained instrumental between the sticks. She received medical attention multiple times but displayed resilience to see out the match despite visible discomfort, a critical reassurance for Nigeria ahead of the continental tournament.
With the 2025 WAFCON fast approaching, Nigeria’s medical team is expected to monitor Nnadozie’s fitness closely. The former Paris FC goalkeeper remains a cornerstone in the team’s quest for a historic tenth African title.
The Super Falcons are drawn in Group B of the tournament alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana. They will open their campaign against Tunisia on Saturday, July 6, at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
