Nigeria will look for a response to their difficult start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign when they face Russia in an international friendly on Tuesday.
The Super Eagles travel to Nizhny Novgorod after suffering a 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in Bissau. The match kicks off at 7:00 pm local time and 5:00 pm Nigerian time.
Russia enter the game in better form. Valery Karpin’s men have won four consecutive matches, including a 6-0 victory over Namibia on October 3. They had earlier beaten Iran 2-0, with Aleksandr Golovin scoring both goals
Russia has relied on friendly matches since their suspension from FIFA and UEFA competitions in 2022. Their last defeat came against Egypt in May, while their recent results suggest Karpin has been able to maintain a settled side despite the absence of competitive fixtures.
Nigeria’s situation is different. Eric Chelle’s men opened their AFCON qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo before losing 3-0 to Guinea-Bissau. Tuesday’s friendly provides an immediate opportunity to assess other options before the qualifiers resume.
Chelle will be without several regular Nigeria players. Wilfred Ndidi withdrew from the squad, while Victory Akpe, who was initially brought in as his replacement, suffered an injury in training. Tromso defender Vince Osuji was subsequently called up.
Bright Osayi-Samuel has also withdrawn, with Ibraheem Mahfus Ajasa receiving a late invitation. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Samuel Chukwueze, Ola Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi are among the established players unavailable.
The changes could provide opportunities for newcomers including John Otomewo and Chibuzo Nwoko, while Kelechi Iheanacho, Moses Simon and Akor Adams offer Chelle more experienced options in attack.
Russia have fewer selection concerns. Konstantin Tyukavin is in contention to lead the attack, while Stanislav Agkatsev could retain his place in goal. Arsen Adamov, Viktor Melekhin, Artem Karpukas and Mingiyan Beveev are also options after Russia’s strong recent run.
Head-to-Head
Russia and Nigeria have met once at senior level. Their June 2025 friendly in Moscow ended 1-1, with Semi Ajayi’s own goal putting Russia ahead before Tolu Arokodare equalised for Nigeria.
Match: Russia vs Nigeria
Competition: International Friendly
Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Venue: Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod
Kick-off: 7:00 pm local time; 5:00 pm Nigerian time
