'It was planned' - Portugal coach reveals why Ronaldo was taken off against Super Eagles

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted early in the second half in the 2-1 win over Nigeria as part of a pre-arranged fitness plan for the veteran forward.

The former Manchester United forward endured a frustrating outing against Nigeria, squandering some scoring opportunities before being replaced in the second half by Gonçalo Ramos.

Speaking at the post match press conference, Martinez explained that the players had predetermined playing-time schedules, revealing that Ronaldo was originally slated to feature for the opening 60 minutes of the match.

"Diogo Costa had a 90-minute plan, Cristiano 60. Nuno Mendes was going to have 30 and 45 minutes for Vitinha and João Neves,” Martinez said via Ojogo.

The Portugal coach added that he was delighted with the attitude and concentration shown by his players.

“I'm very pleased with the attitude and focus of all the players. Being able to have the idea of making changes to the team and showing synchronization is a source of pride,” he added.

Martinez praised Nigeria for providing a stern test, describing the Super Eagles as a physically strong side with dangerous attacking movements.

"It was a fantastic test, the opponent was demanding, from a different culture, we don't usually play against African teams.

“I think today we had an opponent with players who have a lot of physical ability and use attacking movements very well, without needing much combination to get into the area. It's a strong aspect that Congo also has.”

He noted that Portugal improved after the break, maintained their intensity despite making nine halftime substitutions, and limited Nigeria's attacking threat in the second half.

“It was a difficult game, we created opportunities, we improved in the second half, which is very important to me,” Martinez noted.

“Making nine substitutions at halftime and being able to continue with the same idea, but adding the level of game control.

“Nigeria had a good game in the first half, but in the second half they didn't have a shot on goal. Our game had intensity without the ball and winning always helps with confidence. But the most important thing is to have the team prepared."

The defeat was the Super Eagles' first in their last four friendly matches, having previously recorded victories over Jamaica and Zimbabwe in the Unity Cup, as well as a draw against Poland in Warsaw.