The Super Falcons of Nigeria, nine-time African champions and a dominant force in women’s football on the continent, engaged in a hard-fought goalless draw against Portugal in an international friendly held in Lisbon. This crucial preparatory match, a penultimate test before the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, offered valuable insights into the team’s tactical readiness and individual player performance. Coach Justin Madugu fielded a strong starting lineup, showcasing a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talents, with the aim of fine-tuning his strategies and assessing the team’s cohesion against a formidable opponent.
Portugal, known for their disciplined and technically proficient style of play, dominated possession for significant periods during the match. Their relentless attacks tested the resilience of the Nigerian defense, led by the experienced Osinachi Ohale and the promising Miracle Usani. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, a vital cog in the Super Falcons’ machinery, proved her worth with a series of crucial saves, thwarting Portugal’s attempts to break the deadlock. Despite Portugal’s control of the midfield, the Nigerian defense remained organized and compact, limiting the hosts’ opportunities in the final third.
While Portugal dictated the tempo of the game, especially in the first half, Nigeria’s attacking forays, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Rasheedat Ajibade and Rinsola Babajide, offered glimpses of their offensive potential. The midfield, marshalled by Toni Payne, Christy Ucheibe, and Jennifer Echegini, worked diligently to connect the defense and attack, although clear-cut chances remained elusive in the opening period. The halftime whistle blew with the scores level, reflecting a closely contested battle between two determined sides.
The second half witnessed a shift in momentum as Nigeria emerged with renewed vigor and a more proactive approach. The midfield battle intensified, with the Super Falcons asserting their physical presence and displaying a greater willingness to advance into the attacking third. Francisca Ordega almost broke the deadlock with a spectacular long-range effort that beat the Portuguese goalkeeper but unfortunately struck the crossbar. This near-goal, perhaps the highlight of the match for Nigeria, underscored their increasing attacking intent.
Portugal, keen to break the stalemate, introduced several substitutes in the second half, injecting fresh energy into their attack. However, the Nigerian defense, anchored by the resolute Ohale and Demehin, held firm, thwarting Portugal’s attempts to penetrate the final third. Nnadozie, despite enduring three injury scares during the second half, continued to command her area with authority, highlighting her importance to the team’s success. Her resilience, playing through visible discomfort, demonstrated her commitment to the team’s cause.
This resilient performance against a quality opponent like Portugal serves as a valuable learning experience for the Super Falcons as they prepare for the challenges of WAFCON. The goalless draw, while not a victory, offers positives for Coach Madugu and his team. The team’s defensive solidity, combined with glimpses of attacking flair, provides a foundation to build upon as they fine-tune their strategies for the upcoming tournament. Nnadozie’s exceptional performance, despite injury concerns, is a significant boost, although her fitness will be closely monitored in the coming weeks.
The match against Portugal was a crucial stepping stone in Nigeria’s preparation for the WAFCON, scheduled to commence in Morocco on July 5th. Drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, the Super Falcons will begin their campaign against Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on July 6th. This tournament marks Coach Madugu’s first major competition in charge since taking over from Randy Waldrum, and he will be aiming to make a strong statement of intent by leading the team to their tenth continental title, reaffirming their status as the undisputed queens of African women’s football. Before the tournament kicks off, the Super Falcons will face off against rivals Ghana in a highly anticipated friendly, adding another layer of preparation and intensity to their pre-tournament schedule. This encounter, dubbed the “Jollof Derby,” will provide a final opportunity for Coach Madugu to assess his squad and make any necessary adjustments before the real test begins in Morocco. The match against Ghana will undoubtedly be a fiercely contested affair, adding another element of excitement and anticipation to the Super Falcons’ journey to the WAFCON. The outcome of this friendly will not only offer valuable insights into the team’s progress but also contribute to the rich history of rivalry between these two West African footballing powerhouses.
