Pedro Neto was handed a start in Portugal’s final warm-up game before the start of the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday evening, and the Chelsea ace took full advantage against Nigeria.
Roberto Martinez has a tricky decision when it comes to selecting his starting XI against DR Congo next Wednesday. The former Everton and Wigan boss has some of the world’s best attackers to pick from.
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With Cristiano Ronaldo set to start up top at the ripe old age of 41, focus is being placed in Portugal on who will start out wide. Neto is battling Chelsea target Rafael Leao, Francisco Conceicao and Trincao.
If Neto needed a vote of confidence, he has got it from Martinez. The Chelsea star has started both warm-up games for Portugal against the United States, which Portugal won 2-0, and then Nigeria.
Pedro Neto ends four-month goal drought as Portugal win
Martinez’s side stepped up their preparation for the World Cup against arguably one of the strongest nations not to qualify. A Nigeria side, albeit without star striker Victor Osimhen, stood in Portugal’s way.
Neto opened the scoring. A wonderful finish into the far corner with his left foot, having started on the left flank. He showed his versatility in front of Martinez, as well his goal threat – a fourth for Portugal.
Portugal went on to win the game 2-1. Akor Adams equalised for Nigeria shortly before the half-time whistle, before Conceicao put Martinez’s men in front in the second half. Neto came off at the break.
Interestingly, it is almost four months since Neto last put the ball in the back of the net. His previous goals came in the form of a hat-trick for Chelsea during an FA Cup win against newly-promoted Hull.
Pedro Neto’s stats from Portugal’s 2-1 win over Nigeria
It was a pleasing performance from Neto, not just because of his goal, but perhaps a player playing without the shackles of an expectant and critical Chelsea fanbase on his back. He looked more confident.
Neto completed 90% of his passes on the night, scored from a difficult angle on the turn and as per Fotmob, was the fourth-best player on the park with a solid rating of 7.4. He looks first choice, now.
Chelsea will be hoping that Neto can have a good summer and return to Cobham for pre-season under Xabi Alonso a new man, after a difficult season. If Wednesday night was anything to go by, he will.
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