By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Bruno Fernandes scored a brace, while Goncalo Ramos and Joao Mario added a goal each as Portugal thrashed Nigeria 4-0. in Lisbon on Thursday.
Portugal totally outplayed the Super Eagles in the first half and could have scored more goals but for their lack of poor marksmanship.
Diogo Dalot was set free on the right by a superb Joao Felix’s pass and the defender teed up Fernandes to score the opening goal on nine minutes.
The home continue to pile pressure on the Super Eagles carving out a number of chances.
Portugal were awarded a penalty in the 33rd minute after Fenerbahce defender, Bright Osayi-Samuel handled the ball inside the box.
Fernandes stepped up to send Francis Uzoho the wrong way for Portugal’s second goal.
Moses Simon had a shot saved by Rui Patricio as the Super Eagles tried to get back into the game.
Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro made two changes after the break with Samuel Chukwueze and Frank Onyeka replacing Ademola Lookman and Wilfred Ndidi.
The changes didn’t have much effect with the Super Eagles failing to have have any foothold on the game.
The West Africans were awarded a penalty 10 minutes from time after Osayi-Samuel was fouled by Mario inside the box.
Ramos added the third for Portugal on 82nd minutes.
There was still time for Mario to secure another goal six minutes from time.
