Ndidi Out of Super Eagles Squad for Russia Friendly

Wilfred Ndidi will not travel with Nigeria's national team for the international friendly against Russia scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium. The Beşiktaş midfielder, who captains the Super Eagles, was initially included in head coach Eric Chelle's 24-player roster but has since pulled out of the fixture.

The Nigerian Football Federation has not publicly disclosed the reason behind Ndidi's withdrawal. Reports suggest the withdrawal may be linked to injury sustained during Nigeria's 2-1 qualifying victory over Madagascar last Friday in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier held in Uyo.

Ndidi featured in that match and in Nigeria's earlier qualifying campaign, but his fitness status ahead of the Russia friendly has not been confirmed by official channels. In response to Ndidi's absence, head coach Chelle has adjusted the squad lineup, bringing in reinforcements to fill the midfield gap left by the captain.

The Super Eagles delegation, comprising backroom staff members and several players from Nigeria's domestic league, departed the country on Thursday, October 1, to prepare for the encounter. The friendly represents part of the national team's preparation schedule and will provide opportunities for both established players and emerging talents to gain competitive experience.

This match serves as a platform for Chelle to evaluate player options outside the continental competition calendar. The squad includes veterans from recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers alongside new faces being integrated into the national setup ahead of future tournaments.