Super Eagles begin preparations for Russia friendly in Nizhny Novgorod

The Super Eagles have begun preparations for their international friendly against Russia with their first training session in Nizhny Novgorod on Saturday afternoon.

Nigeria arrived in Russia on Friday and quickly shifted focus to Tuesday’s meeting with the Russian national team at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, as head coach Éric Chelle continues to assess his squad during the October international window.

The session provided Chelle and his technical team with an opportunity to work with the players who have already reported for duty and begin fine-tuning their plans for the encounter.

The friendly comes at a crucial stage of Nigeria’s preparations as Chelle seeks to develop the squad while continuing his work following the team’s opening two matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The Super Eagles started their qualification campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo before their momentum was halted by a heavy 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in Bissau.

Iheanacho, Simon among players in camp

Several members of the squad have already joined the team in Nizhny Novgorod ahead of the meeting with Russia.

Among those who have linked up with the group are Kelechi Iheanacho, Moses Simon, Benjamin Fredrick, Akor Adams, Emmanuel Fernandez and Popoola Abdulrasaq.

Their arrival has given Chelle more options to work with as preparations intensify for the Super Eagles’ second international friendly against Russia in just over a year.

The Nigerian coach will be expected to use the encounter to assess different combinations and give some players an opportunity to stake their claim for more regular involvement with the national team.

The Russia fixture also offers Nigeria a chance to respond to their disappointing result in Bissau and regain some confidence before their next competitive assignments.

Ndidi withdraws as Chelle makes squad changes

Nigeria have also had to make adjustments to their squad following withdrawals and an injury.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi pulled out of the assignment, leaving Chelle without one of his most experienced midfield options.

Akpe Victory was also ruled out after suffering an injury during training, further reducing the coach’s available options.

In response, John Otomewo and Vince Osuji were called up as replacements and have joined the squad as preparations for the Russia game continue.

The changes provide Chelle with an opportunity to assess additional players while managing the demands of an international window that includes both established stars and less experienced members of the squad.

Super Eagles renew rivalry with Russia

Tuesday’s encounter will be Nigeria’s latest meeting with Russia at senior international level.

The two countries last faced each other in a friendly in Moscow in June 2025, with both sides sharing the spoils in a 1-1 draw.

Nigeria will now be looking to produce another competitive performance when they return to action in Russia.

Chelle and his players have several days to work on their tactical approach and address the weaknesses exposed in the defeat to Guinea-Bissau.

The Super Eagles will face Russia on Tuesday, October 6, at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, with the fixture providing another opportunity for Chelle to assess his squad and continue shaping the team ahead of future competitive challenges.