Nigeria Battles Back to Earn 1-1 Draw Against Russia in Moscow Friendly

Moscow, Russia – June 6, 2025 – The Super Eagles of Nigeria showcased resilience and determination to secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Russia in an international friendly at the VTB Arena in Moscow on Friday. Tolu Arokodare marked his arrival on the international stage with his first goal for Nigeria, canceling out an earlier own goal by Semi Ajayi to ensure the spoils were shared in an entertaining encounter.

The match began with Russia asserting early pressure, capitalizing on a defensive error in the 27th minute. A dangerous cross from Dmitri Krugovoy, delivered with pace into the Nigerian penalty area, put Semi Ajayi under pressure from Russian striker Mikhail Komlichenko. In an attempt to clear, Ajayi inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing the hosts a 1-0 lead. The own goal silenced the traveling Nigerian supporters and set the tone for a challenging first half for the Super Eagles.

Despite dominating possession, Nigeria struggled to find cohesion in the final third during a disjointed opening 45 minutes. The team’s attacking play lacked the necessary cutting edge, with misplaced passes and poor decision-making hindering their efforts to break down Russia’s organized defense. The best chance of the half fell to Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who found space inside the box but saw his well-struck shot brilliantly saved by Russian goalkeeper Matvei Safonov, who stood tall to preserve his team’s lead at the break.

The second half saw Russia come out with renewed intent, looking to double their advantage. Early in the period, Konstantin Glushenkov and Stanislav Melekhin both went close, testing Nigeria’s defensive resolve. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was called into action to keep the scoreline at 1-0, making a series of crucial interventions to deny the hosts.

Nigeria’s fortunes changed in the 71st minute, thanks to a moment of opportunism from substitute Tolu Arokodare. A rare mistake from Safonov, whose errant pass was intercepted in a dangerous area, gifted Nigeria a golden opportunity. Arokodare, who had come off the bench to inject fresh energy into the attack, pounced on the loose ball and finished with composure, slotting past Safonov to level the score at 1-1. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Nigerian contingent, marking Arokodare’s first international goal and a pivotal moment in the match.

Buoyed by the equalizer, Nigeria grew in confidence, but Russia responded by ramping up the pressure in search of a winner. The hosts threw bodies forward in the closing stages, with Aleksei Batrakov and Dmitri Barinov forcing Okoye into a string of fine saves. Okoye’s heroics, particularly a stunning stop to deny Barinov in the final minutes, proved vital in preserving the draw.

Nigeria’s coaching staff responded to Russia’s late surge with defensive substitutions, bringing on fresh legs to shore up the backline. The tactical changes paid off, as the Super Eagles held firm to see out the game and secure a valuable point on the road.

The draw reflects Nigeria’s character and ability to adapt under pressure, with Arokodare’s clinical finish and Okoye’s assured performance in goal standing out as highlights. While the first half exposed areas for improvement, particularly in attack, the second-half fightback demonstrated the team’s potential to compete against strong opposition.

For Russia, the result will be seen as a missed opportunity to claim victory at home, with Safonov’s error proving costly. However, their attacking intent and ability to create chances will give them confidence heading into future fixtures.

As Nigeria continues their preparations for upcoming competitive matches, this result serves as a reminder of their depth and resilience. Arokodare’s breakthrough goal could mark the emergence of a new attacking option, while Okoye’s reliability in goal reinforces his status as a key figure in the squad.

The Super Eagles will now look to build on this performance as they return home, with fans hopeful that this draw in Moscow signals more positive results to come.