This Wednesday, the 10th of June, Nigeria will play Portugal and fun fact, it will be only the second time the two teams have played each other. The first and only time before this was on the 17th of November 2022 in and International Friendly game that ended with Portugal winning Nigeria with a 4–0.
Goals: Bruno Fernandes (2), Gonçalo Ramos, João Mário.
This time, it is yet another friendly just before the World Cup, and it is a game billed as an opportunity for Portugal to fine-tune their style ahead of their Group K opening day fixture against DR Congo.
It’s an exciting time, sure, but who are the players to keep an eye out for on the field?
Here is the thC definitive list.
NIGERIA
1. Alex Iwobi
Photo Credit: @alexanderiwobi
The creative heartbeat of Nigeria’s midfield. His ability to link play, carry the ball forward, and create chances will be crucial against Portugal’s possession-heavy midfield. He was one of the team’s shining stars at the last AFCON and could join an exclusive list of players to have made 100 appearances for Nigeria; so far, he is on 99. Only Ahmed Musa: 111 caps, Vincent Enyeama: 101 caps and Joseph Yobo: 101 caps have more.
2. Calvin Bassey
Photo Credit: @calvinbassey
Likely to have the difficult task of dealing with Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal’s attacking movement. His strength and recovery pace will be vital. His defensive abilities, when he wears his shorts low, can never be dismissed when the Super Eagles are being discussed.
3. Paul Onuachu
Photo Credit: @paulebere
With Osimhen absent, Onuachu’s aerial presence could be Nigeria’s best route to goal, especially from set pieces and crosses. Finishing as the joint top scorer in the Turkish league with 22 goals, Onuachu should lead Nigeria’s attack.
4. Abdullahi Bewene
Photo Credit: @abdullahi_bewene
Made his debut against Poland and was one of the revelations of the match. He impressed on the ball, made good decisions under pressure and was widely rated as one of Nigeria’s top performers in Warsaw. Bewene caught the love and admiration of Nigerians, and lots of eyes would be on him against Portugal.
5. Wilfred Ndidi
Photo Credit: @ndidi
The midfield enforcer and captain. His battle with Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and Joao Neves would be a stern test as he has to protect the back line while also controlling transitions. Ndidi’s reading of the game and tackling timing will be Nigeria’s first line of resistance.
PORTUGAL
1. Nuno Mendes
Photo Credit: @nunomendes_5
A modern attacking full-back whose overlapping runs create overloads and additional attacking threats from wide areas. His ability to mark wingers would be a headache for Nigeria’s attack. Fresh from winning the Champions League, Nuno Mendes is always a delight to watch.
2. Bruno Fernandes
Photo Credit: @brunofernandes8
Portugal’s chief creator. His passing range and vision can unlock even well-organised defences. Fresh from winning the Premier League player of the season and breaking the record for the most assists last season, Bruno Fernandes is central to whatever Portugal does through the middle.
3. João Neves
Photo Credit: @joao_neves87
João Neves is the other side of Portugal’s midfield evolution, less about elegance, more about intensity, intelligence, and two-way impact. His partnership with Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha, his teammate from PSG, is one that a lot of fans want to see.
4. Vitinha
Photo Credit: @vitinha
The man who will complete the midfield trio for Portugal, fresh from winning the Champions League with PSG. Vitinha has grown into one of Europe’s most complete midfield controllers. His ability to dictate rhythm, slow when needed, explosive when space opens, is vital to his team’s victory.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo
Photo Credit: @cristiano
Last but never the least, at 41, he remains Portugal’s focal point in attack. Many football fans revere him as their GOAT (Greatest Of All Time). Ronaldo would be the centre of attraction if he startS against Nigeria. His movement in the box and finishing ability mean Nigeria cannot afford any defensive lapses.
