'An African version' - Former Russia coach likens Nigeria to four-time World Cup winners Germany

Former head coach of the Russian national team, Anatoly Byshovets, has drawn a bold comparison between Nigeria and Germany ahead of the much-anticipated friendly between Russia and the Super Eagles.

Byshovets said the African giants remind him of four-time World Cup winners Germany, who are known for their physicality and relentless style.

He believes facing a strong and physical Nigerian side will be a valuable experience for Valery Karpin’s squad, particularly given the long wait for official matches.

The friendly match promises to be a stern test for Russia, with Nigeria’s dynamic and athletic style offering a unique challenge — one Byshovets clearly believes will help shape the national team’s development.

In an interview with Sport-Express, Byshovets said: "I can say as a coach who led the USSR against Nigeria that this is a team that is associated with the Germany team in Europe, only in an African version. 

"They play power football, and the winner is the one who wins in single combats - there is such an English proverb. 

"I think such experience will be useful for our players. The work done by Karpin is thankless in terms of waiting for official matches."

Nigeria will be without several key players for Friday's friendly at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium as Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Calvin Bassey, Stanley Nwabali, Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Kelechi Iheanacho and Samuel Chukwueze are all unavailable for selection.

Since being excluded from international tournaments, Russia have maintained an impressive record, winning all of their last eight matches without conceding a goal.

These victories include dominant performances over Cuba (8–0), Serbia (4–0), Belarus (4–0), Vietnam (3–0), Brunei (11–0), Syria (4–0), Grenada (5–0) and Zambia (5–0).

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com