Conceição's stunner sinks Nigeria as Portugal win final World Cup friendly

Portugal secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Nigeria in their final warm-up match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a spectacular late strike from Francisco Conceição deciding the contest in Leiria.

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condemning the Super Eagles to a narrow defeat

Portugal took the lead in the 23rd minute through a clinical finish from Pedro Neto, capitalizing on early pressure backed by a passionate home crowd. However, Nigeria, playing their part in an entertaining encounter, remained composed and found an equalizer just before halftime.

Akor Adams, continuing his impressive run of form for the Super Eagles, showcased his strength and composure. He shrugged off the challenge of Portuguese captain Rúben Dias before finishing calmly past the goalkeeper. Adams' goal, his sixth for Nigeria, capped an impressive first-half performance where he consistently troubled the Portuguese defense, leaving the teams level at 1-1 at the break.

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showcased his strength and composure, shrugging off the challenge of Portugal captain Rúben Dias before exchanging passes with a teammate and calmly finishing beyond the Portugal goalkeeper.

Nigeria appeared dangerous on the counterattack throughout the first half, exploiting spaces behind the Portuguese defense. The second half saw Portugal manager Roberto Martinez introduce several key players, including Bernardo Silva, João Félix, and Rúben Neves, lifting the hosts' energy. Félix came close to restoring Portugal's lead, forcing a save from Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and hitting the crossbar.

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continued to impress, producing several key interventions to deny Portugal and keep the score level.

Okoye delivered a strong performance, making several crucial saves to keep Nigeria in the game. Despite increased pressure from Portugal, the match seemed headed for a draw until the 75th minute. Conceição then produced a moment of individual brilliance, scoring a superb winner to ensure Portugal entered the World Cup on the back of consecutive wins.

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produced the decisive moment.