Portugal’s Semedo explains how the Nigeria match will benefit his team.

Portugal defender Nélson Semedo believes the friendly against Nigeria on Wednesday will give manager Roberto Martínez a chance to test new strategies and tactical approaches as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup.

Semedo appeared in the first half of Portugal’s 2‑1 win over Chile on Saturday night, with Gonçalo Guedes and Bruno Fernandes scoring the goals.

Portugal is fine‑tuning its World Cup preparations, and Martínez wants to assess different line‑ups and tactical tweaks before the opening match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The upcoming game against the Super Eagles is expected to present another tough test for the European side, allowing Martínez to evaluate players in a variety of roles.

“Certainly, that is the purpose of these matches. We have a game against Nigeria now, and this presents a chance to develop new dynamics,” Semedo told RTP, as reported by Record.

“We are professionals, and I am confident that we can adhere to the coach’s concepts, regardless of what they entail.”

The friendly between Portugal and Nigeria will take place at Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria, with kickoff at 20:45.

The Super Eagles have shown strong form, remaining unbeaten in their last 11 matches in regulation time, with eight wins and three draws.