The Super Eagles have opened camp in Moscow ahead of Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia on October 6, 2026.
Nigeria has already completed its first two matches in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Head coach Éric Chelle will now use the friendly to assess his players ahead of the next phase of preparations.
The match will be played at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium and will provide a strong test for Chelle and his team.
Chelle initially invited 24 players for the game, but the squad has changed following the withdrawals of goalkeeper Victory Akpeyi and midfielder Wilfred Ndidi. Tromso defender Vince Osuji and John Otomewo were called up as replacements.
The squad includes several players who are yet to make their senior international debut, as Chelle looks to give fresh talent an opportunity.
NPFL Players Arrive In Camp
The Super Eagles media team confirmed on Friday that seven players had arrived at the team’s Moscow camp.
Among the early arrivals are Ikorodu City goalkeeper Michael Atata and midfielder Aderemi Adeoye, both from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
More players are expected to arrive between Friday and Saturday as preparations for the Russia game continue.
For many of the players in the squad, the friendly will be their first chance to play senior international football. They will be hoping to impress Chelle and earn more opportunities with the national team.
Nigeria and Russia last met in 2021, with both teams playing out a 1-1 draw at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.
Russia go into the latest meeting on a three-match winning run, while Nigeria will field a squad with several new faces.
