Super Eagles defender Zaidu Sanusi was unavailable as Porto were held to a goalless draw by Palmeiras in their opening FIFA Club World Cup fixture.
Softfootball reports that Sanusi did not feature as the Portuguese side began their Group A campaign with a point against the Brazilian champions.
The result leaves both teams with work to do in their remaining matches. Porto and Palmeiras produced a competitive encounter but neither side could find the decisive goal.
The Portuguese club had opportunities to break the deadlock, while Palmeiras also showed enough attacking threat to keep Porto’s defence under pressure.
Sanusi’s absence means the Nigerian will have to wait for another opportunity to make an impact at the tournament. The left-back remains an experienced member of Porto’s squad and has also played an important role for the Super Eagles.
The Club World Cup provides Porto with an opportunity to test themselves against leading clubs from other continents. Palmeiras, meanwhile, will take confidence from securing a point against a European opponent.
