The Super Eagles of Nigeria held Russia to a 1-1 draw in an international friendly match on Friday evening at the iconic Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. This was the first-ever senior-level meeting between the two nations.
Russia scored in the first half after Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi turned the ball into his own net under pressure. Despite the early setback, Nigeria kept their composure and matched the hosts with intensity and tactical discipline throughout the first 45 minutes.
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The Super Eagles, coming off strong performances against Ghana and Jamaica, stepped up the tempo in the second half. Their pressure paid off when striker Tolu Arokodare found the net with a composed finish—his first-ever goal for the national team—to level the match. The equalizer marked a personal milestone for Arokodare and a positive moment for a team missing several key players.
Both sides pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but neither could break the deadlock, and the international friendly ended 1-1.
Super Eagles Remain Unbeaten in May/June Break
The draw means Nigeria finishes their May/June international window unbeaten, maintaining momentum ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September. The result also extends Nigeria’s unbeaten run to seven matches across all competitions.
Super Eagles Squad Faces Injury and Withdrawal Challenges
- The Super Eagles went into the match with a reshuffled squad due to several withdrawals:
- Stanley Nwabali missed out for family reasons, allowing Maduka Okoye of Udinese to reclaim the No. 1 spot.
- Ola Aina and Wilfred Ndidi were also unavailable, while forwards Kelechi Iheanacho and Samuel Chukwueze withdrew for personal reasons.
- Despite these setbacks, captain William Troost-Ekong and Bright Osayi-Samuel returned to strengthen the defence, while young talents stepped up under head coach Eric Chelle.
Russia’s Formidable Record Tested
The match also tested Russia’s unbeaten streak, which included eight wins and 45 goals scored without conceding. Nigeria’s equalizer broke that defensive wall and highlighted the Super Eagles’ depth and resilience under pressure.
Focus Shifts to World Cup Qualifiers
With matches against Rwanda, South Africa, Lesotho, and the Benin Republic on the horizon, this draw gives Nigeria a platform to fine-tune tactics and build squad chemistry.
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Final Score: Russia 1–1 Nigeria
Goals: Semi Ajayi (OG), Tolu Arokodare (Nigeria)
Venue: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
Match Type: International Friendly
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