“Great performance” – Porto boss Farioli praises Super Eagles star after tough win at Nacional

Porto coach Francesco Farioli singled out Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi for praise following their 1-0 win at Nacional on Sunday, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Sanusi was handed a rare start for the Dragons when they traveled to Estádio da Madeira to take on Nacional.

​The game held high significance for Porto, as they sat at the summit of the Portuguese Liga table and needed a win to maintain the distance between them and the chasing pack.

​Historically, the Dragons have always dominated the fixture against Nacional. However, given they were away from home, it was always going to be a tough assignment.

​The first half ended goalless, but the Dragons finally broke the deadlock through Jan Bednarek in the 60th minute.

​After going down, Nacional took the game to the former Portuguese champions, but Porto managed to escape by the skin of their teeth. The Dragons put in a solid defensive performance, and Super Eagles defender Sanusi was a key part of that showing as they ran out with the 1-0 win.

VITÓRIA na Madeira 💙

⚽️ Jan Bednarek #CDNFCP #SeguimosJuntos pic.twitter.com/SqdULlq0yo

— FC Porto (@FCPorto) February 15, 2026

​He recorded two interceptions, one clearance, one blocked shot, two key passes, eight carries, and a 72% pass accuracy. He was one of the top performers on the night.

​Porto Boss Francesco Farioli Praises Zaidu Sanusi

​Porto’s game against Nacional was Zaidu Sanusi’s first start for the club since December 4. In fact, since he returned from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in mid-January, the 28-year-old had not kicked a ball for the Dragons.

​Despite that, he managed to produce a strong performance that impressed coach Francesco Farioli.

​”Let me mention Zaidu’s individual performance, because he played his last match many weeks ago. I think he had a great performance today,” Farioli said, per Futebol365.

​Sanusi will be pleased with the praise from his coach and will be hoping his performance earns him more game time in the coming weeks.

​Sanusi was not the only Nigerian player in action for Porto, however. Compatriot Terem Moffi also made his debut for the club against Nacional.