Portugal coach Martínez provides fitness update ahead of Nigeria clash

Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez has provided an update on the fitness of key players ahead of his side’s upcoming international fixtures, including their friendly against Nigeria.

Speaking at a press conference, Martínez confirmed that Manchester City right-back Matheus Nunes is currently not fit to train and will miss Portugal’s first warm-up match against Chile.

The Seleção das Quinas are scheduled to face the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Wednesday, June 10, a fixture that coincides with Portugal Day, a national public holiday commemorating poet Luís de Camões.

Injury concerns shape Portugal’s preparations

Martínez stressed that the coaching staff will avoid rushing players back too soon, particularly with multiple games in close succession.

“Unfortunately, Matheus Nunes is not yet fit to train, so he is out of the squad for tomorrow. It’s not the time to take risks. We hope Matheus will be fit for the second game against Nigeria,” he said, as quoted by A Bola.

The Portugal coach also provided an update on forward João Félix, who remains under observation and will undergo a late fitness assessment before a final decision is made.

“João Félix will train and we will make a decision after training, but I think it’s a different situation. I feel it’s positive and that he will be fit to play tomorrow,” Martínez added.

Nigeria fixture part of broader preparation plan

Martínez also explained that the timing of the Nigeria match carries symbolic and psychological value as part of Portugal’s World Cup broader preparation.

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles have already begun preparations in Lisbon, with 22 players participating in training sessions on Friday, including winger Samuel Chukwueze, and midfielder Alex Iwobi.