Former Nigeria international Mutiu Adepoju has warned that Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes will represent the most dangerous elements of Portugal's attack in Friday's international friendly against the Super Eagles.

Speaking to Completesports.com, Adepoju was direct in his assessment of the two Portugal stars. "Definitely, the duo of Ronaldo and Fernandes will be a threat. They have always been a threat to play against due to the qualities they possessed," he said.

Despite sounding the alarm, Adepoju expressed confidence that Nigeria are capable of containing them. "The Super Eagles must work very hard to stop them. They are footballers like our players, so I believe Nigeria will be able to curtail them," he added.

Eagles in good form despite World Cup absence

Eric Chelle's side arrive at this fixture in solid form, unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions. Nigeria drew 2-2 with Poland in their most recent outing, and earlier retained the Unity Cup in London with victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica — nine wins from their last 12 games in total.

Portugal, managed by Roberto Martinez, are preparing for their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against DR Congo on June 17. The contrast is stark for Nigeria — who will not feature at the tournament after losing to DR Congo in the CAF playoff final on penalties.

It is a painful absence for a side that has been a fixture at the World Cup since 1994, appearing in six of the last eight editions and reaching the round of 16 on two occasions.

Adepoju acknowledged the disappointment but urged the squad to look ahead. "Victory is always good, and if we beat Portugal, it's another good result for us. But unfortunately, Nigeria will not be going to the 2026 World Cup. The team must work towards qualifying for the 2030 World Cup," he concluded.