Nigeria’s Super Eagles produced a strong second-half comeback to secure a 3-3 draw against Russia at the Sovcombank Arena on Tuesday.
Kelechi Iheanacho gave Nigeria an early lead in the 10th minute, but Russia responded through Lechi Sadulaev and Matvey Kislyak to take a 2-1 lead into half-time.
Alexey Miranchuk increased Russia’s advantage early in the second half, putting the hosts 3-1 ahead.
However, the Super Eagles refused to give up. Peter Edokpolor pulled one goal back before Akor Adams scored deep into stoppage time to complete Nigeria’s comeback.
With several regular Super Eagles players unavailable, coach Eric Chelle used the match to assess some less experienced players.
Here is how the Nigerian players performed:
Super Eagles Player Ratings
Samuel James – 5/10
It was a difficult senior debut for the goalkeeper. James conceded three goals and did not always look fully comfortable in goal. Russia’s movement and finishing also made his task difficult.
Abdullahi Bewene – 6/10
Bewene had a busy night against Russia’s attacking players. He struggled at times when Russia attacked quickly down Nigeria’s right side but improved as the match went on.
Benjamin Fredrick – 6/10
Fredrick became more comfortable as the game progressed. He dealt with Russia’s movement around the box and recovered well when pulled out of position.
Emmanuel Fernandez – 6/10
Fernandez had a difficult first half as Russia found spaces between Nigeria’s midfield and defence. He looked more confident after the break and used his physical strength well.
Isaac James – 5/10
James struggled to make a big impact from the left. Russia created chances down his side, while his attacking contribution was limited.
Aderemi Adeoye – 6/10
Adeoye worked hard in midfield, especially when Nigeria were without the ball. He found it difficult to control the game early on but helped Nigeria become more competitive before he was replaced.
Stephen Michael – 6/10
Michael showed some good touches but struggled to influence the match consistently. He was replaced at half-time as Chelle changed his attacking setup.
Wilfred George Igor – 8/10
The standout Nigerian midfielder. George Igor was calm on the ball, worked hard defensively and helped connect midfield with attack. His performance was one of the biggest positives for Chelle.
Chibuzo Nwoko – 6/10
Nwoko worked hard and was willing to battle in midfield. However, he struggled to maintain his influence when Nigeria were pushed deep. He was later replaced by Vince Osuji.
Moses Simon – 6/10
Simon provided valuable experience in an otherwise young team. He showed flashes of his quality but could not consistently trouble Russia before making way for Umar Abubakar.
Kelechi Iheanacho – 7/10
Iheanacho gave Nigeria the perfect start with a composed finish in the 10th minute. He also provided a useful attacking outlet before being substituted at half-time.
Abdullahi Umar – 8/10
A very encouraging senior debut. Umar brought more movement to Nigeria’s attack after coming on and repeatedly looked for space behind the Russian defence. His energy made Nigeria more dangerous.
Akor Adams – 7/10
Adams made a huge contribution by scoring Nigeria’s equaliser in stoppage time. The goal was an important confidence boost after his recent struggles.
Peter Edokpolor – 7/10
Edokpolor made an immediate impact after coming on. He scored eight minutes later to reduce the deficit and gave Nigeria renewed hope of completing the comeback.
Umar Abubakar – 6/10
Abubakar brought fresh energy after replacing Moses Simon. He did not have enough time to make a major impact but helped Nigeria maintain pressure late in the game.
Vince Osuji – 6/10
Osuji came on late and helped Nigeria maintain their structure as they pushed for an equaliser. He completed his appearance without making any major mistake.
