Portugal conclude their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday evening when they take on Nigeria in an international friendly at Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa.
Roberto Martinez’s side head into the contest as one of the favourites for the global showpiece, with a talented squad capable of challenging for the country’s first-ever World Cup title. Much of the spotlight will once again be on Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to feature in what is expected to be his final World Cup campaign.
The Selecao das Quinas come into this fixture on the back of a 2-1 victory over Chile, where Gonçalo Guedes and Bruno Fernandes found the back of the net.
Portugal have now lost just once in their last several outings and continue to build momentum ahead of their Group K opener against DR Congo.
With Uzbekistan and Colombia also in their group, Portugal will be confident of progressing to the knockout rounds, but Martinez will be keen to ensure his side maintain their rhythm and sharpness before competitive action begins.
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Nigeria, meanwhile, are one of the notable absentees from this summer’s World Cup after suffering heartbreak in the CAF playoff final against DR Congo.
Despite missing out on qualification, the Super Eagles arrive in strong form and are unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions.
Eric Chelle’s men most recently played out a 2-2 draw against Poland and have won nine of their last 12 matches, including victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica to successfully defend the Unity Cup in London.
Although the disappointment of missing the World Cup still lingers, Nigeria have shown plenty of quality in recent months and will view this fixture as an opportunity to test themselves against one of the tournament favourites.
The two nations have only met once before, with Portugal claiming a convincing 4-0 victory in a friendly encounter back in November 2022.
What time does Portugal vs Nigeria start?
Kick-off is scheduled for 11:45 PM EAT on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa, Portugal
Portugal vs Nigeria team news
Portugal have received a major boost with Paris Saint-Germain quartet Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, João Neves and Gonçalo Ramos rejoining the squad following their Champions League commitments.
Martinez is expected to rotate his side, with Diogo Costa likely to return in goal. Nuno Mendes, Vitinha and João Neves could all start, while Bruno Fernandes is expected to retain a central role after scoring against Chile.
Cristiano Ronaldo may be rested after featuring in the previous friendly, potentially opening the door for Gonçalo Guedes, Pedro Neto and Bernardo Silva to lead the attack.
Nigeria will be without several star names, including Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who are not part of the squad for this international window.
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Terem Moffi and Akor Adams are expected to continue their partnership in attack after both started against Poland, while Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka should anchor the midfield.
Despite the absences, the Super Eagles still possess enough quality and athleticism to trouble Portugal, particularly on the counter-attack.
Predicted lineups
Portugal possible starting XI: D Costa; Dalot, Dias, Inacio, Mendes; Vitinha, Fernandes, J Neves; Bernardo, Guedes, Neto
Nigeria possible starting XI: Okoye; Bewene, Ogbu, Fernandez, Onyemaechi; Simon, Onyeka, Ndidi, Nnadi; Adams, Moffi
Portugal vs Nigeria head-to-head and current form
The two nations have only met once previously, with Portugal recording a dominant 4-0 victory in a friendly match in 2022.
Portugal enter this fixture in excellent form and continue to look like genuine World Cup contenders. Their blend of experienced leaders and emerging talent has provided Martinez with significant depth across the pitch.
Nigeria may have missed out on World Cup qualification, but their recent performances suggest they remain one of Africa’s strongest sides. The Super Eagles are unbeaten in six matches and have consistently found ways to compete against quality opposition.
While Portugal boast greater technical quality and squad depth, Nigeria’s physicality and attacking threat should ensure a competitive contest.
Portugal vs Nigeria prediction
Portugal are expected to enjoy the majority of possession and dictate the tempo through midfield, where Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and João Neves can control proceedings.
Nigeria have enough pace and power to create opportunities in transition, and their recent unbeaten run demonstrates their ability to compete against strong opponents.
However, Portugal’s superior quality in key areas, combined with home advantage and greater attacking depth, should ultimately prove decisive in what is likely to be a closely contested encounter.