Russia and Super Eagles played out an entertaining draw in Moscow, Russia.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria fought from the back in Moscow in the first-ever senior international match against Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium.
Head Coach, Eric Chelle’s side were once again missing many of their star names including talisman sharpshooter Victor Osimhen, though were still able to build on winning the Unity Cup in west London last week.
At the Unity Cup 2025, Nigeria emerged Champions for the third time, discomfiting Jamaica in a penalty shootout.
The Super Eagles lifted the Unity Cup 2025 after defeating Jamaica 5-4 on penalties in the final which ended 2-2 right inside the Gtech Community Stadium, London – home ground of Premier League outfit, Brentford FC – on Saturday 31 May, 2025.
Russia went in front just before the half hour mark and slightly against the run of play, though the creation of the opener – albeit casual – was superb. Danil Krugovoy got forward from left-back and sent in a low cross which was for teammate Nikolay Komlichenko in the middle.
However, Nigeria defender, Semi Ajayi, hit the ball and found the back of his own net.
The Russians should have added a second to their lead early in the second 45 minutes when Viktor Melekhin was left alone following a free-kick. But with just goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, to beat, he side-footed an effort high and wide.
That miss would comeback to haunt Russia as the Super Eagles substitute Tolu Arokodare capitalized on a rare mistake from goalkeeper, Matvey Safonov, to level and put an end to Russia’s eight (8) game winning streak in the process.
Nigeria fielded without top stars such as Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman and Ola Aina, however, the likes of Victor Boniface and Christantus Uche were in action to impress.
Subsequently this year, Nigeria will slug it out with Rwanda and South Africa in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
