Nigeria will face Russia on October 6 in a friendly match, seeking to bounce back from their 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The Super Eagles squad is without several key players, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Wilfred Ndidi. This has created opportunities for other players to step up and make an impact in Nizhny Novgorod.
Raphael Onyedika is one player expected to play a major role in the match. The Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder is valued at €23 million and is considered the most valuable player in the squad. With his strength, defensive ability, and composure, he is likely to be important in midfield, particularly in the absence of Ndidi. Onyedika may take on more responsibility and help control the tempo of the game.
Another player to watch is Benjamin Fernandez, a 1.98m centre-back from Rangers. He is expected to provide strength and aerial ability in a defence missing some regulars. A strong performance against Russia could help him secure a bigger role in the plans of coach Eric Chelle. Fernandez's presence in the air and on the ground could be crucial in defending against Russian attacks.
Up front, Cyriel Dessers and Moses Simon are among Nigeria's biggest attacking options. Dessers impressed during AFCON 2025 and will be expected to provide a physical presence in the absence of Osimhen and Lookman. His ability to hold up play and attack crosses could give Nigeria another route to goal. Simon, meanwhile, brings experience, having reached 100 appearances for the Super Eagles, and could be relied on for creativity and pace from the wings.
Kelechi Iheanacho will also be one to watch after a strong start to life at Bursaspor. He has scored in every game since joining the Turkish club and brings valuable experience to a young-looking squad. With 58 appearances and 15 goals for Nigeria, Iheanacho could prove important against Russia, linking midfield and attack. The match also offers him an opportunity to score his first Super Eagles goal since November 2023.
The friendly match against Russia provides an opportunity for the Super Eagles to regroup and rebuild after their disappointing loss to Guinea-Bissau. Coach Eric Chelle will be looking for his players to step up and make an impact in the absence of key stars. A strong performance against Russia could help build confidence and momentum ahead of future matches.
The match against Russia is also a chance for players to stake their claim for regular spots in the Super Eagles squad. With several players out of the squad, there are opportunities for others to impress and earn a place in the team. The friendly match will be an important test for the Super Eagles as they look to bounce back from their recent defeat.
Key points
- Raphael Onyedika is expected to play a major role in the match, controlling the tempo of the game with his strength, defensive ability, and composure.
- Benjamin Fernandez will provide strength and aerial ability in a defence missing some regulars.
- Kelechi Iheanacho brings valuable experience to a young-looking squad, having scored 15 goals in 58 appearances for Nigeria.
