Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has explained how Nigeria recovered from a two-goal deficit to secure a 3-3 draw against Russia in an international friendly in Nizhny Novgorod on Tuesday.
Nigeria took an early lead through Kelechi Iheanacho, but Russia responded with three goals from Lechi Sadulaev, Matvey Kislyak and Aleksey Miranchuk to establish a 3-1 advantage.
The Super Eagles, however, fought back in the closing stages, with debutant Peter Edokpolor reducing the deficit in the 78th minute before Akor Adams scored in the fourth minute of stoppage time to complete the comeback.
Speaking after the match, Chelle said Russia’s dominance towards the end of the first half and early in the second half contributed to Nigeria conceding three goals.
The coach explained that he subsequently made tactical adjustments to Nigeria’s attacking setup, particularly involving the forwards, which helped the team exploit spaces and create opportunities in transition.
“We found a solution because tactically we changed something about our strikers. At the end of the second half, they didn’t find a solution and that’s why we scored two goals in transition,” Chelle said.
Chelle also praised his players for their mentality and determination to fight until the final whistle. He said he was proud of the team’s performance, particularly given that Nigeria travelled with a much-changed squad after several established players were unavailable.
The friendly also provided an opportunity for younger players to impress, with several players making their senior international debuts. Edokpolor made an immediate impact by scoring Nigeria’s second goal, while Adams’ late equaliser ensured the Super Eagles avoided defeat.
The result gives Chelle’s side a positive finish to the international window, although the coach will still have defensive issues to address after Nigeria conceded three goals for the second consecutive match. Nigeria’s next competitive fixtures will come in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania in November.
