After Portugal’s 2–1 win over Nigeria in a friendly match in Leiria, members of the Super Eagles squad and backroom staff were seen making their way towards Cristiano Ronaldo at the final whistle.
The Portuguese captain was surrounded by Nigerian players who lined up to exchange handshakes, brief words, and embraces with the veteran forward, moments after the game ended.
An Instagram clip posted by @stansportfc captured the scene, showing both players and officials from Nigeria gathering around Ronaldo on the pitch in a show of respect and admiration.
Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceição had earlier put Portugal ahead in the encounter, while Akor Adams registered Nigeria’s only goal in the game.
Although the result favoured the hosts, attention after the match shifted heavily toward Ronaldo, who continues to command widespread admiration as he builds towards another World Cup appearance.
The reaction online was swift, with many noting the strong appeal the Portuguese star still holds among players across the world, including members of the Nigerian squad.
Portugal now move on to their World Cup preparations, while Nigeria continue their rebuilding phase following their failure to qualify for the tournament.
