AFCON 2025
Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye says the Russian national team pushed Nigeria to the limit after the one-all draw on Friday.
Russia hosted the three-time African champions at the Luzhniki Stadium on Friday night in fromt of a lively crowd who obviously have been starved of international football for a while.
A Semi Ajayi unfortunate own goal out the Russians ahead in the first half after a brief spell of pressure on the Super Eagles.
However, Tolu Arokodare came on as a second half substitute to score his first goal for the Super Eagles as he pounced on Russia’s goalkeeper error to equalize in the second half.
Speaking after the match, Maduka Okoye says the match was a good test for the team as Russia showed their competitiveness.
“The Russian team showed a very high level. We had to give it our all to play on equal terms with your team. I think it was a great match for the fans.”
Okoye added the Super Eagles gained valuable lessons from the match as they prepare for the resumption of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
“The balls were a little easier than usual,” he added. “But overall, everything was fine. I really liked the atmosphere at the stadium.”
Maduka Okoye was on for the entire duration of the match debutising for first choice Stanley Nwabali who’s in Nigeria for the final burial rites of his parents.
Russia still remain banned from FIFA and UEFA competitions but used the friendly match in keeping its players competitive in the international window.
Next for Russia is Belarus while the Super Eagles shifts focus to the FIFA World Cup qualifiers as they look to better their fortunes in the final round of matches.
