Eric Chelle Faces Player Withdrawals Ahead of Russia Match

Ahead of Nigeria's international friendly against Russia, head coach Eric Chelle has been left with just 18 players after several withdrawals. Chelle had previously announced a separate squad for this match, distinct from the group used in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Only five players from both lists made the trip, including goalkeeper Moses Simon and striker Akor Adams. Captain Wilfred Ndidi withdrew due to a minor injury sustained during the match against Guinea-Bissau.

Eintracht Frankfurt prevented Raphael Onyedika from traveling, while Birmingham City's Bright Osayi-Samuel and UAE-based Ridwan Abdulrasaq Popoola were similarly blocked by their clubs. Defender Victory Akpe was ruled out due to injury, and Austria-based forward Suleiman Mubarak could not join the squad because his residence permit was not processed in time.

Chelle now prepares for the match at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, scheduled for 6 PM Nigerian time.