Player Ratings: How the Super Eagles Performed Against Portugal

Player Ratings: How the Super Eagles Performed Against Portugal

By Niyi Busari 

The Super Eagles suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Portugal in an international friendly in Leiria on Wednesday night, but several players delivered encouraging performances against the FIFA World Cup-bound hosts.

Pedro Neto gave Portugal the lead in the 23rd minute before Akor Adams restored parity for Nigeria in the 37th minute. Francisco Conceição netted the decisive goal in the 75th minute to hand the hosts victory, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Here is how the Super Eagles players rated:

Maduka Okoye – 6/10

Produced a number of important saves, including several stops to deny Portugal's attacking threats. Although he conceded twice, he kept Nigeria in the contest for long periods.

Christian Akpan – 6.5/10

Showed composure and discipline in defence. Handled his responsibilities well before being substituted in the second half.

Semi Ajayi – 5.5/10

Worked hard in central defence but faced a difficult challenge against Portugal's mobile attack. Had a mixed outing.

Calvin Bassey – 7/10

One of Nigeria's standout performers. Strong in tackles, confident in possession and consistently reliable at the back.

Bruno Onyemaechi – 6.5/10

Contributed effectively on both ends of the pitch and maintained a solid defensive display throughout his time on the field.

Wilfred Ndidi – 5.5/10

Provided experience and leadership in midfield but struggled to fully impose himself against Portugal's energetic midfield unit.

Tochukwu Nnadi – 6/10

Displayed composure in possession and worked diligently in midfield, offering balance during key phases of the match.

Alex Iwobi – 6/10

On the occasion of his 100th appearance for Nigeria, Iwobi produced a steady performance and linked play effectively in attacking areas.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 7/10

One of Nigeria's brightest performers. Created the assist for Akor Adams' equaliser and consistently threatened the Portuguese defence with his energy and movement.

Moses Simon – 5.5/10

Worked hard on the flank but found it difficult to make a decisive impact in the final third.

Akor Adams – 7/10

Nigeria's best attacking player on the night. Scored a well-taken equaliser and constantly troubled Portugal's defenders with his physical presence and movement.

Substitutes

Abdullahi Bewene – 5/10

Replaced Christian Akpan in the 60th minute and provided cover defensively without significantly influencing the game.

Frank Onyeka – 5/10

Introduced shortly after the hour mark and added energy in midfield but was unable to alter the flow of the contest.

Zaidu Sanusi – 5/10

Came on to strengthen the defensive unit and performed his duties adequately.

Terem Moffi – 5/10

Worked hard after replacing Moses Simon but had limited opportunities to affect the outcome.

Raphael Onyedika – 5/10

Replaced captain Wilfred Ndidi and offered fresh legs in midfield as Nigeria searched for a way back into the game.

Paul Onuachu – 5.5/10

Replaced goalscorer Akor Adams and provided a physical presence in attack, though he was unable to find an equaliser.

Fernandez – 5/10

Entered for Tochukwu Nnadi and contributed defensively in midfield during the closing stages.

Philip Otele – 5/10

Replaced Alex Iwobi and showed flashes of intent but had little time to make a meaningful impact.

Coach Éric Chelle – 6/10

Nigeria's head coach will take positives from his team's competitive display against a high-quality opponent. His side showed organisation, resilience and attacking intent despite the defeat.