Alex Iwobi marked his 100th appearance for Nigeria, but he Super Eagles suffered a 2-1 defeat Portugal in an international friendly match in Leiria on Wednesday evening.
The Fulham midfielder became only the fourth Nigerian player to reach the century mark in international caps, but the milestone was overshadowed by the narrow defeat that ended Nigeria’s 12-game unbeaten run in regular time.
Portugal, who are preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, secured victory thanks to Francisco Conceição in the second half after Akor Adams had canceled out Pedro Neto’s first-time strike.
Adams scores as Nigeria respond
The hosts started brightly and were rewarded in the 23rd minute when Pedro Neto finished off a well-worked move that saw Diogo Dalot put Portugal ahead.
Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix threatened to extend the lead before half-time, but goalkeeper Maduka Okoye made important saves to keep Nigeria in contention.
The Super Eagles gradually worked their way into the game, with Wilfred Ndidi and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru helping Nigeria gain control in midfield.
Their progress paid off eight minutes before the break when Dele-Bashiru released Akor Adams with a precise pass into the penalty area. The striker kept his composure and shot low past the goalkeeper to level the score at 1-1.
Conceição solves a fun competition
Both coaches made changes after the break as the game remained tied.
Eric Chelle introduced Paul Onuachu, Frank Onyeka, Terem Moffi and Zaidu Sanusi while Christian Akpan was handed his Super Eagles debut before being replaced by Abdullahi Bewene shortly after the hour mark.
Nigeria was more organized defensively in the second half, but in the 75th minute, Portugal managed to turn the tide through Conceição.
The winger produced a brilliant individual drive, weaving his way past several defenders before firing low into the corner to restore the home side’s advantage.
The Super Eagles pushed forward in search of a late equalizer but Portugal held firm to claim victory.
Despite the defeat, the game provided another valuable test for Chella’s squad ahead of their future tasks, while Portugal gained extra momentum ahead of their World Cup campaign.
For Iwobi, the night still held personal significance as he joined an exclusive group of Nigerian centurions that includes Vincent Enyeama, Joseph Yobo and Ahmed Musa.
