Nigeria’s Super Eagles are set to face Russia’s Sbornaya in a highly anticipated international friendly at the iconic 78,000-capacity Luzhniki Stadium on Friday night, marking the first senior-level clash between the two nations. Fresh from their triumph at the four-nation Unity Cup tournament in London, the Super Eagles are determined to maintain their unbeaten run in 2025, showcasing the winning mentality that has defined their campaign.
Under the guidance of Franco-Malian coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria arrives in Moscow with a squad eager to secure a crucial victory ahead of pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September. The team’s recent form includes a 2-0 win over Rwanda in a World Cup qualifier, a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe, a 2-1 victory over Ghana, and a penalty shootout triumph against Jamaica to claim the Unity Cup.
Despite injuries sidelining key players like African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, and AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, the squad remains formidable.
Russia, nicknamed “The Boys,” have not competed officially since February 2022 but have been active in friendlies, most recently thrashing Zambia 5-0 in March, extending their winning streak to eight games.
The Luzhniki Stadium, which hosted the 2018 FIFA World Cup final, adds historical weight to the encounter, with Russia’s memorable victories over Saudi Arabia and Spain in that tournament still resonating.
Chelle’s lineup features goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who aims to solidify his place, alongside defenders like captain William Ekong, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Brentford’s Benjamin Fredericks. The midfield boasts talent such as Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, while forwards Simon Moses and Tolu Arokodare will lead the attack. Krasnodar FC’s Olakunle Olusegun hopes to earn his first senior cap.
This match, kicking off at 6 PM Nigerian time, is a critical test for Nigeria as they prepare to face Rwanda and group leaders South Africa in September’s qualifiers. With both teams bringing rich histories—Nigeria’s 1985 FIFA World Youth Championship penalty shootout win over the Soviet Union in Moscow comes to mind—the stage is set for a thrilling encounter.