What Russia coach Karpin told his players just before kickoff against Nigeria

Valery Karpin, head coach of the Russian national football team, gave a stirring message to his players moments before their international friendly against Nigeria, urging them to play with courage and stick to their game plan. 

The match, played on Friday, June 6, at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, ended in a 1–1 draw.

In a video released by the Russian national team’s press service on Telegram, Karpin addressed his squad in the dressing room shortly before kickoff, highlighting the importance of using the match to assess both individual and team progress.

"Today’s game is interesting – to compete, to look at you, at ourselves,” Karpin was quoted as saying by Championat.

"I mean more from the point of view that the game is friendly, okay? Against a good team. That’s it. Will we be afraid or not? Let’s call it that."

He encouraged his players to show bravery on the pitch, avoid hesitation, and focus on executing what they had practiced during training sessions.

"To be afraid or not to be afraid, when everyone wants the ball, no one blocks it. We do what we trained. Okay? Ready? Let’s go!" he added.

Karpin’s comments highlighted his focus on performance rather than the result in friendly matches, viewing these games as chances to test tactics and build the team’s confidence.

The match itself was evenly balanced, with both teams showing intent but unable to find a winning goal. 

For Russia, the draw was part of ongoing efforts to maintain competitive sharpness, while Nigeria used the fixture as preparation for their upcoming crucial World Cup qualifiers in September.

Wale Adejumo

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