Super Eagles Prepare to Face Russia in Friendly Match

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to play a friendly match against Russia at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, scheduled for 6pm Nigerian time. This match follows a mixed international break, where Nigeria secured a 2-1 victory over Madagascar but suffered a disappointing 3-0 loss to Guinea-Bissau in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Coach Eric Chelle has urged the team to secure a win against Russia, despite the absence of key players such as captain Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, and Bright Osayi-Samuel. Striker Akor Adams stated that the team is determined to perform well, acknowledging Russia's strong desire to compete due to their FIFA ban.

Kelechi Iheanacho, who missed recent qualifiers, is expected to return to the starting line-up after an impressive run in Turkey. The squad has been bolstered by the late arrival of Ibrahim Ajasa, bringing the total to 19 players in camp.