Nnadozie shines as Super Falcons hold Portugal in thrilling draw

By Ijeoma Okigbo

Nigeria’s Super Falcons put up a resilient and spirited display on Monday night, holding hosts Portugal to an entertaining 0-0 draw in an international friendly at the Estádio José Gomes in Lisbon.

Despite arriving less than 24 hours before kick-off, the nine-time African champions shrugged off travel fatigue and produced a disciplined, high-energy performance, with reigning African best goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie delivering a standout display.

Portugal threatened early when a loose back pass by Christy Ucheibe in the 6th minute gifted Diana Silva a golden opportunity, but the striker dragged her shot wide.

Moments later, Nnadozie calmly collected a dangerous cross, and the Falcons responded with a fluid attacking move as Francisca Ordega teed up Rasheedat Ajibade, whose instinctive shot almost found the net.

Portugal enjoyed more possession in the opening half, but Nnadozie proved unbeatable, pulling off a superb save in the 24th minute. Nigeria came close just before halftime, with Ordega being denied by a last-ditch tackle and Rinsola Babajide misplacing a crucial final ball.

The second half saw Nnadozie rise to even greater heights, making three world-class saves in quick succession to keep out efforts from Silva, Andreia Norton, and Telma Pinto.

Coach Randy Waldrum’s substitutions added fresh energy, with Ifeoma Onumonu, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Halimatu Ayinde injecting pace and creativity.

Nigeria dominated the final 20 minutes, nearly grabbing a winner through Ordega’s thunderous shot that rattled the crossbar and Onumonu’s close-range attempt that was foiled by the Portuguese goalkeeper.

The result left home fans applauding the Falcons’ grit and style, as the Nigerian side impressed with both organisation and attacking intent.

The Super Falcons now shift focus to their next fixture against Ghana’s Black Queens in Casablanca on Sunday. The match is part of their final preparations ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where they will open their campaign against Tunisia on Saturday, July 6.