Super Eagles, Russia set for second friendly in 16 months

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face Russia in an international friendly at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

The Nigeria Football Federation announced the fixture on its official X handle on Tuesday, saying it would be the “second meeting between both nations in 16 months.”

“The fixture has been confirmed by Nigeria’s FIFA Match Agent, Jairo Pachon of Eurodatasports,” the NFF said.

Nigeria and Russia last met in a friendly in Moscow in June 2025, with both sides playing out a 1-1 draw.

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Russia took the lead in the 27th minute after Nigeria defender Semi Ajayi scored an own goal, before Tolu Arokodare equalised for the Super Eagles in the 71st minute.

Russia dominated possession with 58 per cent to Nigeria’s 42 per cent in the encounter, while the hosts also recorded more shots, 10 to Nigeria’s six.

Russia has been barred from official FIFA and UEFA competitions since 2022 and has relied on arranging friendly matches against various national teams, including several African sides, to maintain competitive activity.

The October fixture will give both sides another opportunity to test their squads ahead of their respective international engagements.

Saheed is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over two years of experience covering metro, technology, sports, politics, and human-interest stories. He focuses on producing clear, engaging reports across diverse beats. Saheed’s work reflects hands-on newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate and balanced journalism.

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