By Akinwale Kasali
A 74th minute strike from Tolu Arokodare was all the Coach Eric Chelle-led Super Eagles needed to salvage a 1-1 draw against Russia in the much anticipated International Friendly Match.
The equalizer from Arokodare silenced the vociferous Russia fans at the 75,000 Luzhinski Stadium in Moscow, giving the Super Eagles fans a voice.
Despite the fact that a number of Super Eagles players pulled out of the Friendly due to the Islamic Eid El Kabir celebration, personal and family issues, the Super Eagles gave a good account of themselves, having gone a goal down courtesy of an own goal by Oluwasemilogo Ajayi in the 26th minute.
The Russians had started the match like a house on fire, mounting pressure on Nigerian side, who were able to curtail the attacking prowess of their host by absorbing the pressure and gradually getting into the match.
Chelle started the Match with Maduka Okoye in goal, while the pair of Captain, William Troost Ekong, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi played at the centre of the defense, with Bright Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemaechi playing in the left and right wing of the defense.
Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Christantus Uche and Moses Simon in the Midfield, while Victor Boniface led the attack.
The best chance of the Super Eagles came late in the first half when Dele-Bashiru saw his right strike saved by Russian, Goaltender, Vladimir Safanov.
Russia grew into the game as they led the game into the second half before substitute, Arokodare scored the much deserved equalizer.
The Super Eagles are now gearing up for their 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa and the Warriors of Zimbabwe in July 2025.
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