By Ebenezer Mabinuola
Nigeria’s Super Falcons earned a hard-fought 0–0 draw against Portugal in Lisbon on June 23, 2025, in their final warm-up before the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Despite arriving just 18 hours before kick-off after a Moroccan training camp, Nigeria showed resilience against the 14th-ranked Portuguese side. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was the standout performer, making over seven key saves to preserve a clean sheet.
Portugal dominated possession, but Nigeria had chances. Francisca Ordega struck the crossbar and created a near goal for Ifeoma Onumonu. However, attacking stars Asisat Oshoala and Onumonu struggled to convert.
Midfielder Christy Ucheibe anchored the side impressively, breaking up play and launching counters. While the frontline lacked clinical edge, Nigeria’s disciplined defense and mental toughness impressed.
Coach Justine Madugu will review tactical tweaks and fitness levels ahead of the tournament. Nigeria, aiming for a 10th WAFCON title—dubbed “Mission X”—is in Group B with Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana. They face Ghana next in a final pre-tournament friendly on June 29.
The gritty draw signals Nigeria’s readiness to compete, despite travel fatigue and squad rotation, and underscores growing squad depth ahead of WAFCON.
