Nigeria’s Super Falcons continued their unbeaten run under Justin Madugu in 2025 with a spirited 0-0 draw against Portugal in a pre-WAFCON international friendly on Monday evening.
Despite arriving in Lisbon less than 24 hours before kick-off, the nine-time African champions displayed both grit and flair at the Estádio José Gomes, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie delivering a standout performance to deny the hosts.
Head coach Justine Madugu would have been impressed by his side’s defensive organisation, with centre-back Osinachi Ohale complementing Nnadozie’s brilliance at the back.
Portugal had the best of the early exchanges, nearly capitalising on a poor back pass from Christy Ucheibe in the sixth minute, but Diana Silva’s effort drifted wide.
Chiamaka Nnadozie saves a penalty kick by Canada’s Christine Sinclair during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women’s World Cup.Photo by Getty Images
Nnadozie then came to the rescue twice, plucking crosses and pulling off a spectacular stop in the 24th minute.
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Francisca Ordega and captain Rasheedat Ajibade were lively going forward, nearly combining for an opener before the break, while Rinsola Babajide failed to make the most of a late first-half opportunity.
The second half saw Nigeria grow into the game. Nnadozie produced a series of stunning saves in quick succession, denying Jessica Silva, Fatima Pinto, and Andreia Norton.
Michelle Alozie battles with Portugal midfielder Andreia Jacinto in action during a Summer Series friendly. Photo by Getty Images
In the 64th minute, Ordega danced past her marker and squared to Ajibade, only for the Portuguese defence to clear the danger. Later, Ordega rattled the crossbar with an audacious long-range strike in what was nearly the match-winner.
Substitutes Ifeoma Onumonu, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Halimatu Ayinde added energy and balance as the Super Falcons finished the stronger side.
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Madugu’s side now turns its attention to a high-profile friendly against Ghana’s Black Queens in Casablanca on June 29.
The Super Falcons begin their campaign at the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on July 6 against Tunisia, also in Casablanca, as they pursue an unprecedented 10th continental title.
