Super Falcons, Portugal share spoils in pre-WAFCON tie in Lisbon

Reigning African best goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, delivered a standout performance as Nigeria’s Super Falcons held Portugal to a goalless draw in a pre-Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) friendly on Monday in Lisbon.

Despite arriving in Portugal less than 24 hours before the match, the nine-time African champions showed no signs of fatigue, matching their hosts in a fiercely contested encounter that signaled their readiness for the WAFCON tournament in Morocco.

Portugal came close to scoring early after a back pass by Christy Ucheibe allowed Diana Silva a chance on goal in the 6th minute, but her effort went wide. Nnadozie made a clean catch three minutes later, and Francisca Ordega’s smart play nearly set up captain Rasheedat Ajibade for the opener.

Nnadozie was at her best in the 24th minute, making a crucial save amid mounting pressure from the home side. Just before halftime, Rinsola Babajide missed a golden opportunity to give Nigeria the lead following an earlier blocked attempt from Ordega.

In the second half, Nnadozie continued her heroics, denying Jessica Silva, Fatima Pinto, and Andreia Norton in quick succession with a series of spectacular saves.

Substitutes Ifeoma Onumonu, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Halimatu Ayinde added fresh energy to the Nigerian side. In the 64th minute, Ordega created another chance with a brilliant move, but the final pass went unconverted.

The Super Falcons will leave Lisbon for Casablanca on Wednesday to continue their preparations for the tournament with another friendly against Ghana’s Black Queens on Sunday.

Nigeria’s campaign at the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will begin on Saturday, July 6, against Tunisia in Casablanca.