Super Eagles striker Akor Adams is set for a reunion with a familiar official when Nigeria face Portugal in a high-profile international friendly on Wednesday, as Spanish referee Mateo Busquets has been appointed to oversee the encounter at the Dr. Magalhães Pessoa Stadium in Leiria.
The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed Busquets as the referee for the much-anticipated fixture, handing the experienced Spanish official responsibility for a match that could provide valuable preparation for both nations.
For Adams, the appointment brings a sense of familiarity.
The 32-year-old referee has officiated three matches involving the Sevilla forward since his move to Spain, making him one of the few officials with recent experience of the Nigerian striker’s performances at club level.
Busquets previously took charge of two Sevilla away fixtures in La Liga last season against Getafe and Villarreal. Notably, Adams was on target in the encounter against Villarreal, continuing his growing reputation in Spanish football.
The referee also handled the fiercely contested Seville derby between Real Betis and Sevilla during Adams’ debut season in Spain, with the Nigerian international making an appearance off the bench in the second half.
For Wednesday’s international friendly, Busquets will be assisted by fellow Spaniards Iñigo Cerin and Guadalupe Ayuso.
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team will also be Spanish, with Valentin Gomez and Raul Frances assigned to oversee video reviews. Portuguese official Gustavo Correia will serve as the fourth official.
Meanwhile, attention is also turning to the Super Eagles’ preparations ahead of the match. Head coach Eric Chelle is scheduled to address journalists during a pre-match press conference at the Lagoas Park Hotel in Lisbon on Tuesday afternoon, where he is expected to provide updates on his squad and discuss Nigeria’s approach to the friendly.
The showdown against Portugal presents another important test for the Super Eagles as Chelle continues to shape his team, while Adams will be hoping to make another strong impression under a referee who has already witnessed some memorable moments in his Spanish journey.
