The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face Russia in a friendly at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the fixture through FIFA Match Agent Jairo Pachon of Eurodatasports. The meeting will mark their second encounter in 16 months.Nigeria and Russia last met on June 6, 2025, at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium.
Both nations shared a 1-1 draw after a contest.Russia took the lead through Nigeria defender Semi Ajayi, who scored an unfortunate own goal during the first half. Tolu Arokodare restored parity after the break.That result gives the Super Eagles an opportunity to measure progress against European opposition.
Nigeria will enter the friendly after beginning the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles will host Madagascar in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Bissau. They will face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
After those fixtures, Nigeria will travel to Russia for another test. The October encounter should provide coach Eric Chelle with opportunities to assess his squad.
Nizhny Novgorod Stadium can accommodate 44,000 spectators and hosted matches during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Russia will make its second appearance there. Nigeria ranks 26th in the FIFA world rankings, while Russia sits 35th.
The ranking gap adds dimension to the friendly. For the Super Eagles, the match could help maintain momentum ahead of future commitments.
Russia will equally use the encounter to test players and plans. The October 6 meeting promises a competitive chapter between Nigeria and Russia.
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