Every word Troost-Ekong said on Russia national team, Victor Moses, game plan, 2018 memories

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has praised the unifying power of football and shared insights into Nigeria’s preparations ahead of their high-profile international friendly against Russia, set to take place at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday.   

Speaking during a press event hosted by the Russian Football Union, the experienced centre-back reflected on his familiarity with the host country. 

"This is not my first time in Moscow and Russia. I have already played in Krasnodar and Volgograd and other cities in 2018. 

"Yesterday we walked around the city a little, visited Red Square. But we are here on business – this is not a tourist trip.

"Together with the coach, we have already discussed how we will act in the match."

Troost-Ekong also recalled fond memories of one Russian city in particular. 

"I had a chance to visit Russia in 2018. Unfortunately, we looked at many cities through the glass of a bus. 

"I found St. Petersburg very beautiful. But for us it was not a tourist trip, we were preparing for matches.”

Turning attention to Friday’s fixture, Troost-Ekong acknowledged the quality of the opposition. 

"I don't know much about the Russian team now. We understand that the team has changed a lot. 

"Over the past three days, we've watched a lot of videos to better understand what they're playing. 

"We're taking this opponent very seriously. We know that the Russian team hasn't conceded a single goal in the last few matches – we'll try to change that tomorrow. We're looking forward to the game."

He further analyzed Russia’s approach: "We have seen that the Russian team plays aggressively, often using a 4-3-3 formation and high pressing. 

"This will not be an easy task for us, but I will not go into details. We know both the strengths and weaknesses of this team."

As for Nigeria’s own strategy, Troost-Ekong remained cautious. "I don’t know how much I can reveal our game plan, because the head coach is here. 

"Tomorrow we will try to combine different styles – we have an understanding of how to act. 

"We have been working with the coach only since the beginning of the year, and this match is a good chance to make our team stronger and continue progressing.

"There are new players in the squad – this is a great opportunity for them to show how they meet the expectations of the coaching staff."

When asked about Nigerian footballers who have played in Russia, Troost-Ekong responded, "Yes, the first ones that come to mind are Brian Idowu, Victor Moses, who was in Moscow's Spartak. Now we have a young footballer from Krasnodar on our team."

After their Unity Cup triumph in London, the Super Eagles of Nigeria will be seeking to maintain their recent impressive run when they face Russia in their next outing on Friday evening.

Wale Adejumo

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