Under their current manager, Portugal won the Nations League, and last year, despite some difficulties, topped their qualification group. In March, they already traveled to North America—after a goalless draw with Mexico, they defeated the USA. They recently managed to beat Chile, but not without controversy and red cards.
Nigeria did not qualify for the World Cup, finishing second in their group with one point less than South Africa, and losing to DR Congo on penalties in the decisive playoff round. However, at the AFCON, they only lost in the semifinals after another penalty shootout against Morocco, and then secured third place over Egypt thanks to a successful penalty series. Nigeria have also performed well in friendlies, finishing the spring with a 2-0 win over Zimbabwe and drawing an entertaining 2-2 with a much stronger Poland.
The UEFA Nations League winner averages 2.6 goals scored per match, while conceding just one. Their African opponent is not far behind, averaging two goals scored and conceding only 0.8 per game.
Previous Matches: Portugal vs Nigeria
The only previous head-to-head took place in November 2022, resulting in a resounding 4-0 win for Ronaldo and company.
This time, a European victory is expected. However, for now, the best bet looks like “over 2.5 goals” (odds – 1.61).
Portugal vs Nigeria: Key Stats & Trends
Portugal have won three of their last six matches
50% of Portugal’s games end with both teams scoring and an average of 3.6 goals per match
Nigeria have drawn three of their last six fixtures
50% of Nigeria’s matches end with both teams scoring and an average of 2.8 goals per match
Portugal vs Nigeria: Predicted Lineups
Portugal play in a 1-4-3-3 formation (probable lineup): José Sá – João Cancelo, Renato Veiga, Rúben Dias, Nélson Semedo – Bernardo Silva, Samu Costa, Bruno Fernandes – João Félix, Francisco Conceição, Cristiano Ronaldo. Rafael Leão was sent off in the previous match and may face a lengthy suspension.
Nigeria use a 1-4-4-2 formation (probable lineup): Okoye – Onyemaechi, Fernandes, Ogbu, Bevène – Nadi, Ndidi, Onyeka, Simon – Moffi, Adams.
