Retired Soviet Union striker Mikhail Gershkovich believes Nigeria will provide Russia with a stern test despite the Super Eagles missing several key players for their upcoming international friendly.
Russia are scheduled to face Namibia on October 3 before taking on Nigeria three days later, with the Super Eagles clash set for October 6 at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium in Nizhny Novgorod.
Eric Chelle will be without former African Footballers of the Year Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, Premier League quintet Frank Onyeka, Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi, left-back Bruno Onyemaechi and new kid on the block George Ilenikhena for the friendly against Russia.
The likes of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Femi Azeez and Zaidu Sanusi have not been called up for the first international break of the 2026-2027 season due to fitness issues.
Gershkovich expects Russia coach Valery Karpin to use the Namibia fixture as an opportunity to assess some of his squad players before fielding a stronger lineup against Nigeria.
"The Russian national team has two more games. Against Namibia, as Karpin likes, we can try out the players," Gershkovich said in an interview with Championat.
"And against Nigeria, I expect the main lineup to be back in action. I'd like the team to consolidate this performance so we can enjoy it again.
"Nigeria is a tough opponent; even though they'll be missing several key players, they have a lot of reserves. Whoever starts against them will be a serious force."
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