Nigeria XI vs Portugal - Predicted lineup and team news

Nigeria will meet Portugal in their final international friendly on Wednesday before the FIFA World Cup 2026 starts on Thursday.

The Super Eagles head into this fixture on a steady run, unbeaten in their last five matches. Their most recent outing was an entertaining 2-2 draw with Poland, where forward Terem Moffi and substitute Paul Onuachu scored. Before that, they enjoyed convincing friendly victories over Jamaica (3-0) and Zimbabwe (2-0).

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Nigeria team news

Coach Éric Chelle brings a younger, evolving squad to this friendly as part of a transition process.

Nigeria face a notable attacking problem, with top forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman both absent from the squad.

Selection issues continue as defender Igoh Ogbu suffered a training-camp injury that required medical scans, and winger Femi Azeez was withheld by his club.

On the plus side, experienced midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is back and will wear the captain’s armband.

He will join Frank Onyeka in central midfield to try to disrupt Portugal’s fast-paced passing play.

The match also represents a major milestone for playmaker Alex Iwobi, who is set to make his 100th appearance for the national team. Though he may be introduced later in the match as a substitute.

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Chelle will lean on this blend of seasoned leaders and emerging players to test the European powerhouse.

Nigeria predicted lineup

Possible Nigeria starting XI: Okoye; Bewene, Bassey, Fernandez, Onyemaechi; Simon, Onyeka, Ndidi, Nnadi; Adams, Moffi

When will the match kick off?

The match will kick off at 8:45pm BST on Wednesday, 10th May.

How to watch Portugal vs Nigeria?

Fans in the United Kingdom can watch the Portugal vs Nigeria international friendly live on Amazon Prime Video.

Read Also – 10 players at World Cup 2026 you completely forgot about

See More – Our writers’ predictions for the 2026 World Cup

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