The Super Eagles suffered a 2-1 defeat to Portugal in their international friendly at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria on Wednesday night.
Chelsea winger Pedro Neto gave the hosts the lead after finishing off a swift attacking move, putting the European side ahead in the first half.
Nigeria responded before the break through Sevilla striker Akor Adams, who calmly slotted home the equaliser.
However, Selecao das Quinas forward Francisco Conceição netted the decisive goal in the second half, curling a superb effort into the bottom corner to secure victory for Portugal.
Allnigeriasoccer,com presents five observations from the match.
Christian Akpan Makes Super Eagles Debut
Genk defender Christian Akpan made his senior debut for Nigeria after linking up with the Super Eagles camp in Portugal.
The youngster delivered a modest performance, facing difficulties in containing Portugal's attacking threats and movement down the right flank.
He was also partly at fault for Portugal's opening goal, failing to deal with a lofted pass that sent Diego Dalot through on goal.
Dalot then picked out Pedro Neto, who slotted the ball into the bottom corner to give the hosts the lead in the first half.
Ronaldo Tamed by Resolute Eagles Defence
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was effectively kept quiet by the Super Eagles' defence during the international friendly in Leiria.
The veteran forward had an early chance to put the hosts ahead but was denied by goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who produced a fine save.
Despite his experience and attacking threat, Ronaldo found it difficult to break through Nigeria's well-organised backline and was eventually substituted for Gonçalo Ramos in the second half.
Alex Iwobi Reaches Centurion Milestone
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi made his 100th appearance for the Super Eagles, achieving the milestone more than a decade after his international debut against DR Congo in 2015.
Iwobi started in midfield and played 90 minutes before making way for Philip Otele.
Since breaking into the national team, the 30-year-old has scored 10 goals for Nigeria, including the memorable strike against Zambia that sealed the Super Eagles' qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Improved Second Half Performance From Portugal
Portugal produced a stronger second-half performance, starting brightly as João Félix forced Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye into several important saves.
Nigeria briefly managed to slow the tempo after a series of substitutions from Eric Chelle, but the pressure from the hosts returned in the closing stages.
The breakthrough eventually came when Juventus forward Francisco Conceição scored the decisive goal, sealing Portugal's dominance.
Akor Adams Caught in Tactical Moment During Break
Sevilla striker Akor Adams briefly attracted attention after being spotted near Portugal's technical area during a second-half water break.
The Nigerian forward was seen close to the Portuguese team as manager Roberto Martínez delivered his instructions to the players.
He was, however, politely asked to step aside following a brief, light exchange with members of the opposition team.
Adeyemi Adewale
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