Nigeria forced a 1-1 draw against Russia in their first-ever senior international meeting, despite missing several key players including Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi.
The Super Eagles came into the game off a high from their Unity Cup win in London but faced a different kind of test in Moscow. Despite a depleted squad, Nigeria managed to extend their unbeaten run, thanks to a well-taken equaliser from Tolu Arokodare.
Russia took the lead in the 28th minute through an unfortunate own goal by Semi Ajayi. Left-back Danil Krugovoy sent in a dangerous cross, which Ajayi accidentally turned into his own net while trying to intercept it.
Nigeria had a chance to level before halftime when Fisayo Dele-Bashiru broke clear, but Paris Saint-Germain’s Matvey Safonov made a crucial save to deny him.
After the break, Russia had opportunities to double their lead. Viktor Melekhin missed a clear chance, shooting over the bar when unmarked. Those misses proved costly.
Substitute Tolu Arokodare capitalised on a rare mistake from Safonov, calmly slotting home to make it 1-1. The Genk striker, who filled in for Victor Osimhen, impressed with his sharpness and urgency.
“Tolu took his chance and made the difference – that’s what you want to see from a striker,” said Nigeria assistant coach Finidi George after the game.
Russia nearly snatched a late winner, but Nigeria goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was outstanding. He made two key saves, including a full-stretch stop to deny Aleksey Batrakov.
With crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa on the horizon, the Super Eagles can take encouragement from their resilience and squad depth.
Article updated 3 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
