Nigeria Super Eagles players in white away kits posing arm-in-arm on the pitch before an international match, including players wearing numbers 11, 17 and 4


Russian football expert Aleksandr Bubnov has stated that Russia would face a difficult challenge against Nigeria if the Super Eagles play with their first-choice squad. 

Speaking on the YouTube channel Komment.Show in comments cited by Championat, Bubnov said, "Against Nigeria. The Nigerians, too, if they come to play with their main lineup... We won't win." He made the assessment while discussing Russia's upcoming international friendly schedule.

The friendly against Nigeria is set to be the first senior meeting between the two nations. The match has been organized by the Russian Football Union and the Nigeria Football Federation as part of Russia's continued program of friendly matches during its suspension from FIFA and UEFA competitions. 

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is expected to lead the Nigerian side, and Bubnov's comments point to the importance of Nigeria's player availability, with the team featuring several Europe-based regulars when at full strength.