Super Eagles defender Bruno Onyemaechi has praised Nigeria’s performance against Portugal despite the team’s 2-1 defeat in an entertaining international friendly played in Leiria.
READ ALSO: Super Eagles Impressive in Narrow Defeat by World Cup-bound Portugal in Leiria
The Super Eagles produced a spirited display against the FIFA World Cup-bound Portuguese side and pushed Roberto Martinez’s men all the way before eventually falling to a late winner.
“It was a good outing for us despite the result,” Onyemaechi said.
According to the Olympiakos defender, the game provided Nigeria with a valuable opportunity to measure itself against one of the strongest teams in world football.
“Playing against a world-class team like Portugal helps us learn a lot,” he implied.
Nigeria showed resilience throughout the encounter after falling behind in the 23rd minute through Pedro Neto. The Super Eagles responded positively and were rewarded when Akor Adams brilliantly equalized in the 37th minute following excellent work involving Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
The goal highlighted the confidence and attacking threat that Nigeria carried throughout the game.
“The team showed great character and belief,” Onyemaechi noted.
Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye also produced several impressive saves to keep Nigeria in contention, denying Bruno Fernandes, João Félix and even frustrating Cristiano Ronaldo during the contest.
Following several second-half substitutions by coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles appeared rejuvenated and continued pushing forward with energy and confidence.
“They never stopped competing despite the quality of the opposition,” many football observers believe.
Portugal eventually secured victory through Francisco Conceição’s late strike, but Nigeria earned praise for matching the European giants for long periods of the match.
Onyemaechi believes encounters of this nature are exactly what the Super Eagles need as they continue preparing for future competitions.
“These are the type of games we should keep playing,” he added.
The defender stressed that facing elite opposition regularly will help improve the team tactically, mentally and physically.
“Such matches help us improve our performance levels,” he stressed.
Despite the defeat, Nigeria left Portugal with plenty of positives, having demonstrated organisation, confidence and fighting spirit against one of Europe’s strongest teams.
For Bruno Onyemaechi, the message is clear.
The result was disappointing.
The performance was encouraging.
And more matches against top nations can help the Super Eagles continue their growth under Eric Chelle.
Because competing against the best remains one of the fastest ways to become better.
