Portugal coach Martinez praises Super Eagles ahead of Leiria friendly

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has spoken highly of Nigeria’s Super Eagles and their coach, Eric Chelle, ahead of Wednesday’s friendly match in Leiria.

The game serves as Portugal’s final warm-up before the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, while Nigeria will use the encounter to assess progress under Chelle after missing out on a second consecutive World Cup appearance.

Portugal defeated Nigeria 4-0 in their last meeting in November 2022, but Martinez expects a tougher contest this time. He praised Nigeria’s forward players and the competitiveness of the team, noting that even with the absence of key attackers like Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, replacements have stepped up with high-level performances.

The Portuguese coach also highlighted the experience of players such as Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi, whom he knows well.

Before kick-off, Nigeria will honour Iwobi as he makes his 100th senior appearance for the Super Eagles.

Portugal, who were beaten by Morocco in the quarter-finals of the last World Cup, are in Group K alongside DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia as they continue their search for a first world title.