Portugal Beat Chile 2-1 to Extend Unbeaten Run Ahead of Nigeria Friendly

Portugal concluded their penultimate warm-up fixture before the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-1 victory over Chile at the Estadio Nacional on Saturday, extending their unbeaten run to four matches ahead of Wednesday’s international friendly against Nigeria in Leiria.

Cristiano Ronaldo featured from the start and was central to Portugal’s attacking intent in the opening half before being replaced at the interval. The Al Nassr forward believed he had broken the deadlock during the first period, but his effort was disallowed for offside. Prior to that decision, Portugal had come close on multiple occasions — Ruben Dias saw a powerful header well saved by Chile goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux, while Rafael Leao struck the woodwork with a fierce attempt.

The match was further complicated when a clash between players resulted in red cards for both Leao and Chile defender Ivan Roman, reducing each side to ten men for the remainder of the contest. Despite the numerical disruption, Portugal regrouped effectively after the break.

Substitute Goncalo Guedes broke the deadlock in the 58th minute, finishing calmly after a precise through ball from Bruno Fernandes released him into space. Fernandes, who had been one of Portugal’s standout performers throughout, then doubled the advantage with a curled effort from outside the penalty area that found the bottom corner. Chile pulled a goal back deep into stoppage time through Lucas Cepeda, whose powerful strike beat Rui Silva, but Portugal held firm to secure the win.

The result continues a positive run of form for Roberto Martinez’s squad as they finalise preparations for the World Cup, which gets underway later this month. Portugal are among the tournament favourites, and with Ronaldo, Fernandes, Ruben Dias, and Bernardo Silva expected to be available for the Nigeria fixture, they represent one of the most formidable matchups available for the Super Eagles ahead of the global showpiece.

Nigeria, managed by Eric Chelle, travel to Leiria on Wednesday having drawn 2-2 with Poland in Warsaw in their previous warm-up outing. The Super Eagles did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup and will be using the fixture as an opportunity to measure themselves against elite European opposition. The two nations last met in a friendly in 2022, a match that ended in a 4-0 victory for Portugal — a result Nigeria will be looking to improve upon.

Wednesday’s match also carries added significance for Portugal as the final scheduled preparation fixture before competitive action resumes at the World Cup. For Nigeria, the encounter offers a platform to demonstrate their capabilities despite their absence from the tournament, with the Super Eagles keen to build momentum and confidence heading into the second half of 2026.