By David AFOLABI
Nigerians expecting key Portugal players to start Wednesday’s international friendly against Nigeria may be disappointed.
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has insisted that the match will not determine his starting line-up for the country’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While stressing the importance of the Nigeria friendly, he described it as an opportunity to test new ideas and tactical approaches ahead of the tournament.
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Martínez said his focus remains on ensuring every member of his squad is ready for the tournament rather than preparing exclusively for the Group game against DR Congo.
Portugal now has a full squad available following the arrival of Paris Saint-Germain quartet Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, João Neves, and Gonçalo Ramos. Midfielder Matheus Nunes is also expected to resume full training after missing the recent 2-1 win over Chile due to fitness concerns, while João Félix is in contention to feature against the Super Eagles.
Speaking after the victory over Chile, Martínez dismissed suggestions that plans for the World Cup opener would shape the team selection against Nigeria.
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“No, no. We now have the four PSG players arriving, along with Matheus Nunes, and we expect to have all 26 or 27 players ready for the second game. We continue with individual preparation,” he said.
“Francisco Trincão did not play because the red card situation varies based on how we concluded the game, but the goal is to prepare all players to be ready for the World Cup and not solely for the first match.”
Portugal will open their World Cup campaign against DR Congo at Houston’s NRG Stadium on June 17.
Semedo played in the first half of Portugal’s win over Chile, with Gonçalo Guedes and Bruno Fernandes scoring in the victory.
The experienced full-back said the encounter with Nigeria would help the coaching staff assess different options before the World Cup begins.
“Certainly, that is the purpose of these matches. We have a game against Nigeria now, and this presents a chance to develop new dynamics,” Semedo told RTP, according to Record.
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“We are professionals, and I am confident that we can adhere to the coach’s concepts, regardless of what they entail.”
The friendly between Portugal and Nigeria will take place at the Estádio Dr Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria on Wednesday, with kick-off scheduled for 8:45 pm local time.
