Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has named captain Cristiano Ronaldo and midfielder Bruno Fernandes in a 27-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations, including an international friendly against Nigeria.
The UEFA Nations League holders will face the Super Eagles on June 10 at the Dr. Magalhães Pessoa Stadium in Portugal as part of their build-up to the World Cup in North America.
Portugal have been drawn in Group K alongside DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia, with their opening fixture scheduled against DR Congo at the NRG Stadium in Houston.
Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, is expected to lead the Portuguese side in what could be his final FIFA World Cup appearance, while Fernandes also retained his place following another impressive season at club level.
Both stars were involved the last time Portugal faced Nigeria in an international friendly in November 2022, although Ronaldo missed the encounter which ended in a 4-0 victory for the Europeans.
Martínez’s squad blends experienced internationals with emerging talents currently playing across Europe’s top leagues.
Goalkeepers selected for the tournament preparations are Diogo Costa, José Sá, Rui Silva and Ricardo Velho.
The defensive line includes Rúben Dias, João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Diogo Dalot, Gonçalo Inácio, Tomás Araújo, Renato Veiga, Matheus Nunes and Nelson Semedo.
In midfield, Portugal will rely on Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, João Neves, Vitinha, Rúben Neves and Samuel Costa.
The attacking options feature Ronaldo alongside Rafael Leão, João Félix, Gonçalo Ramos, Pedro Neto, Francisco Trincão, Francisco Conceição and Gonçalo Guedes.
Meanwhile, Nigeria coach Eric Chelle has yet to unveil his squad for the high-profile friendly but has indicated that he intends to assemble a strong team despite the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
The encounter is expected to provide both countries with a competitive test ahead of the global tournament.
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