Nigeria are set for their biggest test under new head coach Eric Chelle as they take on in form Russia in an international friendly this Friday.
The match will be played at the famous Luzhniki Stadium, Russia’s biggest football ground, and it promises to be a real challenge for the Super Eagles.
Russia have been in top shape all year. Since January 2024, they have played seven games, won all seven, scored 36 goals, and have not conceded any. Their wins include:
* 11-0 vs Brunei
* 5-0 vs Grenada
* 5-0 vs Zambia
* 3-0 wins against Serbia and Belarus
They have been dominant and are full of confidence heading into the clash with Nigeria.
Eric Chelle has made a positive start as Nigeria’s coach. Since taking over in January, he has guided the team to:
* A 2-0 win over Rwanda
* A 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe
* Victory at the Unity Cup, beating Ghana and Jamaica
Even with a few defensive issues, Nigeria now look more dangerous in attack and stronger mentally.
Unfortunately for Chelle, many top players will miss the match:
* Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are both unavailable
* Others missing include: Iheanacho, Ndidi, Chukwueze, Aina, Dessers, and Tella
This means a much changed team will take the field. The Super Eagles’ attack will likely be led by Victor Boniface, Moses Simon, and Tolu Arokodare. Olakunle Olusegun, who plays club football in Russia, has also been called up and could feature.
In goal, with Stanley Nwabali unavailable, Maduka Okoye is expected to start.
Russia have named a full strength side. Key names include:
* Matvey Safonov (PSG goalkeeper)
* Maksim Glushenkov (hat trick vs Zambia)
* Alexey Batrakov (young forward to watch)
Though banned from FIFA competitions, Russia have stayed active through friendlies and are treating this match seriously.
This will be the first senior level match between Russia and Nigeria. Russia recently beat Zambia and Cameroon, while Nigeria’s last win over European opposition was at the 2018 World Cup, against Iceland.
Predicted lineups
Russia (4 3 3):
Safonov; Krugovoy, Diveev, Osipenko, Vakhania; Chernikov, Miranchuk, Komarov; Mostovooy, Komlichenko, Glushenkov.
Nigeria (4 4 2):
Okoye; Osayi Samuel, Ajayi, Troost Ekong, Onyemaechi; Onyeka, Onyedika, Simon, Dele Bashiru; Uche, Boniface.
Prediction: Russia 2-2 Nigeria
MATCH DETAILS
* Match: Russia vs Nigeria
* Competition: International Friendly
* Venue: Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
* Date: Friday, 6 June 2025
* Kickoff: 6:00 PM Nigeria time
