Nigeria’s Super Falcons played out a 0-0 draw against Portugal in an international friendly match on Monday night, ahead of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The match took place at the Estadio José Gomes in Lisbon, Portugal.
Both teams started cautiously, with few chances in the early minutes. As the game progressed, Portugal began to push forward but were stopped by the impressive performance of Nigerian goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie. She made two important saves in the first half to keep the score level.
Nigeria also created their own chances. Francisca Ordega and Rasheedat Ajibade used their pace to trouble the Portuguese defence, while Rinsola Babajide nearly scored before the break but failed to convert a clear opportunity.
In the second half, Toni Payne had one of Nigeria’s best chances after a good pass from Ajibade, but her shot went wide.
Portugal responded with more attacks, but Nnadozie stood firm again with another crucial save.
Coach Justin Madugu made several substitutions in the second half, bringing on Ifeoma Onumonu, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Halimat Ayinde to strengthen the team.
Nigeria came close to winning the match late on. Ordega hit the post in the 80th minute, and Onumonu narrowly missed after another good cross from Ordega.
The Super Falcons will now prepare for another friendly game against Ghana’s Black Queens on Friday as part of their build-up to WAFCON.
