Overview

• Russia opened the scoring in the 27th minute when Nigeria defender Semi Ajayi turned the ball into his own net at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium.
• Nigeria levelled in the second half through Tolu Arokodare, ensuring a 1-1 finish in their inaugural senior meeting with Russia.
• Banned from competitive play since February 2022, Russia have relied on friendlies for match practice and had posted heavy wins before conceding here.
• The Super Eagles extended their unbeaten run to six matches despite missing key internationals including Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho and Samuel Chukwueze.
• The fixture offered fringe players such as goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and forward Victor Boniface a platform to impress ahead of crucial qualifiers.