The impressive Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow was the venue for a friendly today between hosts Russia and Nigeria that served up football of a quality that didn’t quite match the grand surroundings. Urged on by the home crowd, Russia could have buried Nigeria but for a couple of world class saves from Maduka Okoye in goal. The decisive moments instead came from an own goal from Semi Ajayi in the 27th minute as he hooked a low cross into his own net, and sub Tolu Arokodare finishing smartly for his first international goal from a calamitous assist from Russian goalie Matvei Safonov after 71 minutes.
The Nigerians would likely have failed to score considering there was hardly any invention coming from within their own ranks. Despite dominating in the first half, they hardly created much concern for the Russian defence due to way too many sideways passes and poor ball control. But they should have taken the lead with six minutes of the first half left as Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, one-on-one against Safonov forced a very good save that really should have been buried.
After the break, Victor Boniface, who once again failed to impress as his first touch regularly let him down, managed to get on the end of decent cross from Christantus Uche but headed straight at the keeper.
Nigeria coach Eric Chelle must be wondering what he learned from those that took to the field today. Raphael Onyedika was tidy in front of the back four. Alongside him, Frank Onyeka was as workmanlike as ever. And Moses Simon had one of his least memorable games for his country. Nigerian fans must also be wondering what difference Chelle has made in the five games he has coached the national side since his appointment in January this year. The same stodgy football, lacking in fluency and inspiration, that was served up by previous coaches, is still being delivered.
While regulars such as Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, etc missed this game and the two Unity Cup matches in London, Nigerian fans must fear that even on their return, not much will change when the serious business of World Cup 2026 qualifiers resume in September at home to Rwanda.
