Super Eagles Touch Down in Moscow for Friendly Match

By Chioma Eze/ 2 Oct 2026(updated 10m ago)/ 2 min read/ 20 views

The Super Eagles have landed in Moscow for their international friendly against Russia on Tuesday. Coach Eric Chelle made two changes to his squad after Wilfred Ndidi and Victory Akpe pulled out.

Vince Osuji and John Otomewo have stepped in for the two players as Nigeria gets ready for their second game against the Russian national team in 16 months.

Kelechi Iheanacho

The match is set for October 6. It comes after Nigeria had a tough start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, which has seen mixed results.

The Super Eagles kicked off their Group L campaign with a 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar in Uyo. Debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored after Ehsan Kari had put Madagascar ahead early on.

But Nigeria faced a setback in their second match, losing 3-0 to Guinea-Bissau in Bissau. Coach Chelle admitted the hosts were more aggressive and that his team struggled to find answers.

Moses Simon

This friendly against Russia gives the Super Eagles a chance to regroup and look at their options before the next round of competitive matches.

Chelle Brings in New Players

Chelle has named a different 24-man squad for the match, including several players who are getting their first call-ups to the senior team.

Ready for Russia test

Goalkeepers Michael Atata from Ikorodu City and Samuel James, who plays in Finland, join Stanley Nwabali in the squad.

The defense will feature Kenneth Igboke, Isaac James, Benjamin Fredricks, Emmanuel Fernandez, Vince Osuji, John Otomewo, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Abdullahi Bewene.

Some of the new faces

In midfield, Ndidi's place will be filled by Raphael Onyedika, Chibuzo Nwoko, Stephen Michael, Igor Wilfred, Ridwan Abdulrasaq, Suleiman Mubarak, and Aderemi Adeoye.

The attack includes Kelechi Iheanacho, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Peter Edokpolor, Abubakar Umar, and Abdullahi Umar.

Looking forward to a good game against Russia

Nigeria and Russia last played in Moscow in June 2025, where the match ended in a 1-1 draw. Tolu Arokodare scored Nigeria's equalizer after a Semi Ajayi own goal had given the hosts the lead.