Super Eagles player ratings: Onyeka star man, Dele-Bashiru shows up, Arokodare super-sub, Ajayi costly

Nigeria battled hard in a tightly contested international friendly against Russia, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

The hosts took an early lead through an unfortunate own goal by Semi Ajayi, but Nigeria showed resilience and fought back. 

Below is how the Super Eagles players were rated for their performances in the match.

The starters

Goalkeeper

Maduka Okoye: Okoye had a solid game between the sticks, making several crucial saves to keep Nigeria in the game. His command of the area was good, though he was beaten by the own goal. 7/10

Defenders

Troost-Ekong: The captain showed strong defensive awareness throughout the game. He made key interventions, notably denying Komlichenko a clean header and winning important aerial duels. His leadership helped organize the backline despite the pressure from Russia. 6.5/10

Semi Ajayi: A difficult night for Ajayi, whose unfortunate own goal handed Russia the lead. Although the situation was pressured with Komlichenko close behind, the error was costly. He had some decent defensive moments but struggled to impose himself consistently. 5.5/10

Bright Osayi-Samuel : Osayi-Samuel was active on the right wing, offering pace and direct running. He created some decent opportunities but was often contained by the Russian defense. He was beaten for pace in the build-up to Russia's goal. 6/10

Bruno Onyemaechi: Bruno put in a steady performance on the left side though he did not make many significant attacking contributions. 6/10

Midfielders and forwards

Christantus Uche: He was defensively solid and showed willingness to support the attack. His crossing was decent, although his decision-making in the final third could have been sharper. 7/10

Frank Onyeka: A standout performer for Nigeria, Onyeka put in a robust shift, breaking up play and driving the team forward. His work rate and ball distribution were important in trying to build attacks, and he added a physical presence in midfield. 8.5/10

Raphael Onyedika: Onyedika matched Onyeka’s energy and showed good composure on the ball. He was instrumental in maintaining midfield control and linking play between defense and attack. His ability to recover possession was notable. 7/10

Fisayo Dele Bashiru: The Lazio star showed glimpses of attacking threat, notably a strong run that ended with a fantastic save from the Russia goalkeeper. He worked hard and helped drive the team forward but was substituted late as the team looked to tighten up. 7/10

Moses Simon: His experience was evident in his movement and link-up play. He contributed defensively and offered some pace on the flank. However, he was not able to produce a game-changing moment. 5.5/10

Victor Boniface : The Bayer Leverkusen striker was largely anonymous in attack simply because he was starved of service.  He had a few headed attempts but was unable to find the net before being replaced. 5/10

The substitutes

Tolu Arokodare: Super Eagles saviour. He made a significant impact coming on at 61 minutes, scoring the vital equalizer. His alertness and composure in front of goal earned Nigeria a deserved point, showing he can be a decisive presence off the bench. 8/10

Olakunle Olusegun: The Russian Premier League player added energy and fresh legs on the left wing late in the game. While he didn’t have much time to influence the match, his presence helped maintain balance on the flank. 6.5/10

Igoh Ogbu: Replaced Dele-Bashiru in the 90th minute. Not enough time to be rated.

Wale Adejumo

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