Ronaldo declares Portugal ready after Nigeria victory

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared Portugal ready for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after his side edged Nigeria’s Super Eagles 2-1 in their final warm-up fixture in Leiria on Wednesday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports. The Portugal captain posted a message on Instagram shortly after the full-time whistle at the Estádio Dr Magalhães Pessoa, writing, “The preparation is done. Eyes on the World Cup.” It was not a flawless evening for the hosts. Pedro Neto gave Portugal the lead in the 23rd minute after Ronaldo spurned a gilt-edged chance, but Akor Adams levelled before halftime after being set up by Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Francisco Conceicao then settled the contest after the break, netting the winner to hand Roberto Martinez’s side a narrow but confidence-boosting victory. It was the second time Portugal had faced Nigeria before a World Cup, having beaten the Super Eagles 4-0 in a similar fixture in 2022. Related News South Korea beat Czechs 2-1 to make strong World Cup start Govt official denies LPG exports amid soaring domestic prices Oyo APC questions circumstances surrounding 200 Amotekun personnel’s deaths Despite the defeat, Nigeria gave a competitive account. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was outstanding with a string of important saves, while defenders Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey were composed throughout. Akor Adams enhanced his growing reputation with a well-taken equaliser before being replaced late in the game. In midfield, Tochukwu Nnadi showed energy and maturity, and substitutes Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika added stability after their introductions. Alex Iwobi, marking his 100th cap, had a quiet evening, while Moses Simon struggled to make an impact before being substituted. For Nigeria, the friendly also signalled coach Eric Chelle’s first defeat in regulation time since taking charge, ending a 25-match unbeaten run of 16 wins and nine draws. Portugal head into the tournament in Group K, where they will face the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Colombia and Uzbekistan. Peter Akinbo Peter, who has been covering sports for PUNCH for close to two years, focuses on combat sports reporting, special features and human angle stories

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