Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo will spearhead a strong national team squad against the Nigeria national football team in Wednesday’s international friendly in Leiria, according to PUNCH.

The match at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa will serve as Portugal’s final preparation game before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with coach Roberto Martínez naming a near full-strength squad.

Portugal’s lineup includes several of Europe’s top stars, among them Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, João Félix and Rafael Leão, as Martínez continues to fine-tune his side ahead of the tournament.

For Nigeria, the encounter represents another major test under head coach Éric Chelle as the Super Eagles continue rebuilding following their failure to qualify for the World Cup.

A significant milestone is also expected during the fixture, with midfielder Alex Iwobi set to earn his 100th senior international cap. The achievement would place him among a select group of Nigerian players to reach the landmark.

Nigeria are expected to rely on experienced figures such as Wilfred Ndidi, while attackers Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon provide creativity and pace in the final third.

Although classified as a friendly, both teams are expected to approach the contest competitively. Portugal are seeking momentum before the World Cup, while Nigeria aim to measure their progress against one of Europe’s strongest national sides.

Historically, Portugal have enjoyed the upper hand in meetings between the two countries, including a 4-0 victory over Nigeria in a 2022 friendly in Lisbon. However, Nigeria’s evolving squad and tactical development could make this encounter a more balanced contest.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:45pm local time in Portugal, which corresponds with the same time in Nigeria.