Team news: Barcelona attacking midfielder ruled out of Portugal v Nigeria clash

Portugal manager Francisco Neto will be without Barcelona attacking midfielder Kika Nazareth for Monday evening's high-profile international friendly against Nigeria's Super Falcons at the José Gomes Stadium in Amadora.

The fixture is part of Portugal's final preparations for the 2025 European Championship, where Neto's side will look to make an impact. 

According to Portuguese sports daily A Bola, Kika is definitely not going to play in the upcoming match against Nigeria as she is not yet fit enough.

Kika has not played for club or country since March 12 when she ruptured the internal lateral ligament in her left ankle during a domestic cup tie against Real Madrid—an injury that also ruled her out of the Champions League final.

Despite her long layoff, she was named in Portugal's provisional squad for the European Championship.

She took part in light training on Sunday, jogging with teammates before engaging in individual drills to assess her physical condition.

Kika will undergo further fitness tests in the coming hours to determine whether she will be fit in time for the Euros.

A final decision on her inclusion must be made before UEFA's squad submission deadline at midnight on Wednesday.

She has scored 10 goals in 43 appearances for Portugal but has not featured for the national team since February.

The Super Falcons and their backroom staff have already touched down in Lisbon ahead of their friendly clash with Portugal.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com