Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has announced that he will name his strongest team for a historic friendly against Russia in Moscow during the June international break. The match will mark the first-ever meeting at full international level between Nigeria and Russia.
Core Team to Face Russia
Chelle revealed that the core of the team from the matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe will get another chance to play against Russia in the friendly. “The core of the team from the matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe will get another chance to play against Russia in the friendly,” the coach told reporters.
Four-Nation Invitational Tournament
In addition to the friendly against Russia, Nigeria will also participate in a four-nation invitational tournament in England, featuring perennial rivals Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago. This tournament is expected to provide an opportunity for Chelle to give a chance to several fringe players as well as fresh call-ups.
Preparation for World Cup Qualifiers
The Super Eagles will use the international break to prepare for crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda at home and away in South Africa in September. They are currently fourth in the standings with seven points from six matches.
Quotes from Coach Chelle
Chelle’s comments suggest that he is committed to fielding a strong team in the upcoming friendlies. “The core of the team from the matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe will get another chance to play against Russia in the friendly,” he said.
Conclusion
The upcoming friendlies will provide an important opportunity for the Super Eagles to prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With Chelle’s commitment to fielding a strong team, fans can expect an exciting and competitive match against Russia.
The four-nation invitational tournament in England will also provide a chance for fringe players to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot in the team. As the Super Eagles continue to prepare for the World Cup qualifiers, their performance in these friendlies will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.