Highly-rated Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare scored his first goal for the Super Eagles on Friday evening when they drew 1-1 with Russia in an international friendly game.
The forward missed out on a starting role in the friendly encounter but came on in the 61st minute to replace in-demand forward Victor Boniface.
Ten minutes after coming on, Tolu Arokodare equalised with a fine finish to restore parity to the game and give Nigeria the chance of chasing a second goal to secure victory.
Unfortunately, the efforts of the Super Eagles were not enough, forcing the team to settle for a draw against a resilient Russian side.
The host led at halftime through an own goal by Nigeria’s Semi Ajayi. Although the hosts would have some other chances in the second half, they could not equalise.
The friendly today at Luzhniki stadium provided the opportunity for Nigeria coach Eric Chelle to give chances to new players to show what they can offer the Super Eagles.
The coach and his team went into the friendly fresh off winning the 2025 Unity Cup.
At that tournament in London, Nigeria defeated Ghana 2-1 in the semi-finals before overcoming Jamaica on penalties to clinch the trophy.
