Super Falcons beware: Three Portugal players Nigeria cannot afford to ignore

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will face Portugal’s Navegadoras in an international friendly at Estádio José Gomes in Amadora on Monday evening. 

As the Super Falcons prepare for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, they confront a Portuguese side readying for UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. 

To achieve a positive result, Nigeria must neutralize three standout Portuguese players: Jéssica Silva, Tatiana Pinto, and Carole Costa.

Tatiana Pinto: The 31-year-old Atlético Madrid midfielder, is a cornerstone of Portugal’s midfield. 

Known for her vision, precise passing, and relentless work rate, Pinto controls the game’s tempo with over 100 caps of experience. 

Her recent performances in Spain’s Liga F highlight her ability to create chances and drive transitions, which could test Nigeria’s midfield, including Benfica’s Christy Ucheibe. 

The Super Falcons must press Pinto aggressively to disrupt her playmaking and prevent Portugal from dominating possession.

Jéssica Silva: The 30-year-old forward is another player to mark tightly. Known for her technical skill, and clinical finishing, 

Silva has been a consistent threat for Portugal. Her ability to exploit defensive gaps and create scoring opportunities, often cutting in from the wings, poses a significant challenge. 

Nigeria’s defenders, fresh off a 2-0 win over Cameroon, must track Silva’s runs to limit her impact in dangerous areas.

Carole Costa : The experienced Benfica center-back, anchors Portugal’s defense with authority. Her experience, aerial dominance, and tactical nous make her a formidable barrier. 

Costa’s leadership and ability to organize the backline, honed in UEFA Women’s Champions League matches, will test Nigeria’s forwards like Rasheedat Ajibade. 

The Super Falcons must exploit quick transitions to bypass Costa’s defensive structure and create scoring chances.

Under coach Justine Madugu, the Super Falcons will be seeking to build momentum for WAFCON. 

Neutralizing Pinto’s creativity, Jéssica Silva’s attacking threat, and Costa’s defensive solidity will be crucial for a competitive showing against a confident Portuguese side.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: fpf.pt

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