'Expecting a very good game' - Ex-Lokomotiv star Victor Obinna backs Super Eagles to shine v Russia

Former Super Eagles forward Victor Obinna has praised the current Nigeria national team ahead of their friendly with Russia, highlighting the depth of talent in the squad, especially in the attacking department.

Obinna is no stranger to Russian football, having spent four years with Moscow giants Lokomotiv during his playing career.

With several key players missing the trip to Moscow, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi, the friendly offers an opportunity for fringe and emerging talents to stake a claim ahead of the resumption of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The likes of Christantus Uche, Benjamin Fredrick, Igoh Ogbu, Tolu Arokodare and Olakunle Olusegun will be looking to impress head coach Eric Chelle, should they feature in Friday’s match.

Obinna, who represented Nigeria in multiple international competitions, stressed the importance of the match.

"The current Nigerian team is a good team with a lot of good players, especially forwards," Obinna said in an interview with Championat.

"I think in this match the coach will want to test some of the recently invited players to see how they can fit into the team with an eye on future competitions."

On his expectations for the match, Obinna said: "Of course, I will watch the Russia-Nigeria match. I think it will be a very good test for both teams. 

"People in Nigeria are expecting a very good game because we are facing a strong opponent."

Moscow holds a special place in Victor Obinna’s heart, as his first child was born there.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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