'Would've been interesting to see Osimhen' – Russia midfielder wanted to face Super Eagles star striker

Russia midfielder Mikhail Shchetinin has expressed disappointment at not having the opportunity to test himself against Super Eagles marquee forward Victor Osimhen during the 1–1 draw between Russia and Nigeria in an international friendly held at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday evening.

Shchetinin admitted he had been looking forward to facing the Galatasaray forward, who was in the form of his life during the recently concluded season.

The Napoli loanee directly participated in 45 goals (37 goals, 8 assists) in 41 appearances for the Istanbul club - his best in a single season since turning professional.

With a summer transfer appearing increasingly likely after a demanding campaign, Osimhen was deliberately left out of Nigeria’s international fixtures in May and June to reduce the risk of injury ahead of a potential move.

The decision, understood to be mutually agreed between the player and manager Eric Chelle, comes as speculation continues to mount over the striker's next destination, with several top European clubs and Al Hilal credited with an interest.

In addition to Osimhen, other key Super Eagles players, including Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze and Ola Aina, requested to be excused from the squad, citing injuries or personal reasons.

Speaking after the match, Shchetinin told championat: "To be honest, it's a shame that not all the Nigerian team players came. It would have been interesting to see Osimhen from Galatasaray."

Despite the absence of the Super Eagles talisman, Shchetinin was impressed with the team Nigeria fielded.

"A good team came to Russia. Boniface. It was interesting to see them," he added, referencing Victor Boniface, who led the line before being replaced by Tolu Arokodare.

Addressing the goalkeeping blunder by Matvei Safonov, he said: " "Honestly, we didn't discuss the moment with the second goal. Of course, Safonov is upset. But we will conduct a theory session where we will discuss it."

With the exception of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Rwanda, Victor Osimhen has found the net in every appearance for the Super Eagles since the start of the 2024–2025 season, underlining his prolific form at international level.
 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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