We didn't play well - Nigeria Super Eagles coach admits

Nigeria’s Super Eagles fought to a 1-1 draw against Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium on Friday night, ending their European tour on a resilient note without some key players.

Coach Eric Chelle admitted his team struggled, particularly in the first half, but praised their second-half turnaround, driven by super-sub Toluwase Arokodare’s crucial equaliser.

According to the Franco-Malian, Russia’s technical quality and intense pressure overwhelmed Nigeria early on.

“We didn’t play well in the first half; our pressing game wasn’t effective,” Chelle confessed post-match, in a video shared by the team on Instagram.

“Russia has a good team with lots of pressure and technical qualities.”

An own goal by defender Semi Ajayi handed Russia the lead, exposing Nigeria’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Star striker Victor Boniface, stepping up in the absence of key players, struggled to make an impact against a robust Russian backline.

Chelle’s halftime adjustments sparked a revival. The Super Eagles ramped up their pressing in the second half, which proved decisive.

In the 71st minute, substitute Arokodare capitalised on a costly error by Russia’s goalkeeper, intercepting a sloppy back pass and calmly slotting home his first international goal.

The strike secured a valuable draw, halting Russia’s impressive winning streak.

“It was not an easy game,” Chelle noted, crediting the team’s improved pressing for the turnaround.

“We were better in the second half, and that made the difference,” Chelle added.

Despite Boniface’s quiet performance, Arokodare’s composure and Nigeria’s tactical shift showed their depth and character.

The draw offers a positive foundation for the Super Eagles as they head into future fixtures.

Chelle’s focus on high pressing and adaptability proved effective against a formidable opponent, signalling promise for Nigeria’s ongoing development under his leadership.