Portugal End Nigeria Unbeaten Run

By Eppe Franklyne| Nigeria’s impressive run of form came to a halt on Wednesday as Portugal secured a 2-1 win over the Super Eagles in an international friendly, ending the Nigeria unbeaten run that had stretched across 12 matches.

The encounter remained tight until the final stages, with Pedro Neto putting Portugal ahead in the 74th minute before Akor Adams levelled for Nigeria in the 82nd minute after being set up by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

Just when the match looked destined for a draw, Francisco Conceição produced a late moment of quality, beating Zaidu Sanusi and curling home a precise left-footed strike to seal victory for the hosts.

Despite Nigeria’s resilience, the result confirmed the end of the Nigeria unbeaten run, with the team unable to find a second equaliser in the closing minutes as Portugal held firm under pressure.

The Nigeria unbeaten run had boosted confidence across both competitive and friendly fixtures, but this defeat highlighted the fine margins at elite international level and the importance of maintaining focus until the final whistle.

There was still a major milestone for Alex Iwobi, who earned his 100th international cap for Nigeria, becoming only the fourth player in history to reach the landmark. His achievement stood out as a key moment in the broader context of international football and Super Eagles progress.

For Portugal, the victory provides a strong confidence boost as they continue preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will compete in Group K alongside DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia.