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Ahead of Nigeria’s international friendly with Russia, William Troost-Ekong and coach Eric Chelle say the match is vital for building a cohesive squad and refining tactics.
  • Troost-Ekong: “We’re here for business, not sightseeing.”
  • Friendly seen as prep for AFCON 2025 and 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
  • Russia praised for intensity and unbeaten streak; Nigeria watching tapes.
  • Chelle confirms Osimhen, Lookman, Ndidi, Chukwueze, and Tella are out.
  • Nigeria focused on learning under a new coaching style and lineup.
This isn’t just another friendly for the Super Eagles. For vice-captain Troost-Ekong, the trip to Moscow is strictly mission-focused, a chance to test new ideas and earn chemistry under a new coach. With big names missing, the match doubles as a proving ground for emerging players and Chelle’s tactical evolution. Russia’s form adds pressure, but also a great chance to see how Nigeria copes under real intensity.

A friendly on paper, but a pressure test in reality. Can Nigeria’s evolving squad hold its own against red-hot Russia?