Draw in Moscow is a reason to be proud - Nigeria's Chelle

Toluwalase Emmanuel Arokodare (C) of Nigeria celebrates with teammates after scoring the 1-1 goal during the soccer friendly match between Russia and Nigeria in Moscow, Russia, 06 June 2025. EPA/MAXIM SHIPENKOV

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Saturday Jun 07, 2025. 13:00

Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, believes that his charges should be proud following the team’s draw with Russia on Friday night.

The two teams drew 1-1 in an international friendly match which was played at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium, where Semi Ajayi’s own-goal handed the hosts the lead, but Tolu Akorodare levelled matters for the Super Eagles.

When reflecting on the match, Chelle, who is an Ivory Coast-born Malian tactician, lauded both sides and indicated that there are areas for improvement.

“The Russian team is a great team. Your players played great: they have good technique, and they are especially strong in pressing,” Chelle told reporters.

“The whole game was interesting, and, in my opinion, a draw is a fair result in such a difficult match. The game was indeed difficult. We had a few moments, and the Russians did too. I think that two strong teams met.

“We will make changes, we will work on playing under pressure, because this problem has already arisen in the last three matches. We need to learn to cope with the opponent’s pressing – this was especially noticeable in the second half, when we were practically left without the ball. This is thanks to the Russian footballers,” he added.

“I think that the draw in Moscow is a reason to be proud, especially considering the level of the Russian team.”

The Super Eagles maintained their unbeaten record in 2025, ahead of two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying games against Rwanda and South Africa in September.