Roberto Martinez believes Portugal’s World Cup warm-up against Nigeria went as planned, insisting “the idea wasn’t to win 5-0”.
Portugal won 2-1 against the Super Eagles in their final friendly before the World Cup, with Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceicao scoring either side of Akor Adams’ strike for the visitors.
Martinez’s side created 1.63 expected goals (xG) from their 13 shots while restricting Nigeria to just 0.33 from five attempts at Estadio Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa.
For the third consecutive warm-up game, Portugal scored two goals in a win, and Martinez believes his side are ready for their World Cup opener against DR Congo on June 17.
“Nigeria is very similar to DR Congo, with very strong attackers who use duels very well. It’s always important to win,” Martinez told RTP.
Prodígio #VaiDarPortugal pic.twitter.com/Buph2rqGJm
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) June 10, 2026
“We had good opportunities in the first half. When we broke through their aggressive block, we had chances, but with space they also had opportunities, which is good for us to react.
“Very satisfied with the work, the players are ready and prepared for the World Cup. The friendly was very good.
“The idea wasn’t to win 5-0 or play a brilliant game, it was to have a difficult opponent to test aspects for the World Cup and I was very satisfied.”
Cristiano Ronaldo was responsible for 1.19 of Portugal’s xG, though the 41-year-old did not hit the target with any of his four attempts.
He also played the most minutes of any outfield player for Portugal (65), though Martinez revealed it was always part of his plan to do so.
“Diogo Costa had a 90-minute plan, Cristiano 60,” Martinez added.
“Nuno Mendes was going to have 30 and 45 minutes for Vitinha and Joao Neves.
“I’m very pleased with the attitude and focus of all the players. Being able to have the idea of making changes to the team and showing synchronisation is a source of pride.”
The post ‘The idea wasn’t to win 5-0’ – Martinez defends Portugal display against Nigeria appeared first on SoccerNews.
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