World Cup 2026: Wilfred Ndidi hails snubbed Portugal stars Jota Silva and Tiago Djaló before friendly

Nigeria midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has thrown his support behind Besiktas teammates Jota Silva and Tiago Djaló after the Portuguese pair were left out of Portugal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s glamour friendly against Portugal, Ndidi was asked about the absence of the two Besiktas players from Roberto Martínez’s travelling party despite their strong performances at club level last season.

The Super Eagles midfielder addressed the issue during media duties at the Lagoas Park Hotel on Tuesday, insisting both players possess the quality required at the highest level, while acknowledging that national team selection ultimately rests with the Portugal coach.

Jota Silva earns praise despite omission

Silva played an influential role for Besiktas during the campaign, contributing five goals in 23 appearances as the Turkish giants battled through a demanding season. His performances helped establish him as one of the club’s most effective attacking outlets, yet they were not enough to secure a place in Portugal’s World Cup squad.

Ndidi spoke highly of the winger’s work ethic and commitment when asked whether he would recommend Silva for a national team recall.

“Unfortunately, our club didn’t win any titles this year and we weren’t able to compete as we wanted. I don’t have the power to suggest anything, but these Portuguese lads are very good, they work hard, they’re aggressive and they work very hard in training.”

Silva has featured twice for Portugal’s senior side, with his most recent appearance coming in a friendly against Slovenia in March 2024. Since then, he has struggled to force his way back into Martínez’s plans despite producing consistent displays at club level.

Tiago Djaló remains on the fringes

Djaló’s omission has also raised questions given his contributions in defence for Besiktas. The centre-back scored twice in 22 appearances last season and was a regular presence at the heart of the Black Eagles’ back line.

The defender earned his first senior Portugal cap in a UEFA Nations League match against Croatia in November 2024, but has not featured for the national team since that debut appearance.

While Ndidi stopped short of lobbying for either player, his comments underlined the respect both men command within the Besiktas dressing room.

Portugal will continue their World Cup preparations without Silva and Djaló, while Nigeria prepare to test themselves against one of Europe’s strongest sides in a fixture that offers both nations a valuable benchmark ahead of future international assignments.