Nigeria’s senior national women’s team, the Super Falcons Monday continued their build-up to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, WAFCON with a tightly contested international friendly at Estádio José Gomes in Amadora which ended in a 0-0 stalemate against Portugal’s Navegadoras.
The match, apart from being a crucial WAFCON preparatory duel for the Super Falcons was also a build-up for Portugal’s participation in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 in which both teams showcased resilience but struggled to find a winning edge.
Arriving in Lisbon just last night, the travel-weary Super Falcons displayed commendable grit to hold their European hosts.
Portugal started the game on the front foot, dominating possession and dictating the tempo in the first half.
The hosts had the first real chance to take the lead when Diana Silva found herself inside the box after a fine team move, but her shot aimed at the roof of the net was brilliantly saved by Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The Falcons had a rare opportunity to break the deadlock when Rinsola Babajide, after capitalizing on a defensive lapse, attempted an ambitious lob from distance. However, the former Liverpool forward’s effort sailed wide of the target.
Shortly before the break, Nnadozie was again called into action, this time denying Jéssica Silva from close range to keep the game level at halftime.
Nigeria returned from the break with a more organized and purposeful approach. Head coach Justin Madugu introduced Ifeoma Onumonu in place of Babajide to bolster the attack.
The substitution almost paid off, as the American-born striker used her skills to trouble the Portuguese defence. Onumonu came close to scoring, but her effort from close range was deflected for a corner.
Nigeria’s best chance of the match came late in the second half when Francisca Ordega unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, only to see her effort crash off the crossbar.
Despite Portugal’s persistent late push for a winner, Nigeria’s defence stood firm to secure a confidence-boosting clean sheet ahead of the biennial continental showpiece.
Coach Madugu will be encouraged by the team’s composure, improved second-half display, and their ability to grind out a result under pressure.
With WAFCON fast approaching, the goalless draw offers positive signs as the Super Falcons aim to reclaim their crown in Morocco.
