The Super Eagles battled back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 3-3 draw against Russia on Tuesday evening in an entertaining international friendly at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium.
Nigeria made an impressive start and opened the scoring in the 10th minute through Kelechi Iheanacho. The forward produced a stunning strike from 21 yards after receiving an assist from Abdullahi Bewene to give Eric Chelle’s side an early advantage.
Russia responded strongly and drew level in the 30th minute when Lechi Sadulaev found the net.
The hosts continued to apply pressure and completed their comeback shortly before half-time, with Matvey Kislyak scoring to put Russia 2-1 ahead.
Chelle made two changes at the start of the second half as Akor Adams and Abubakar Umar replaced Michael Stephen and Iheanacho.
Nigeria needed a response after losing the advantage they had established during the opening stages.
Russia increased their lead in the 54th minute when Aleksey Miranchuk scored to make it 3-1.
The two-goal deficit left Nigeria facing the prospect of another disappointing result after their recent loss to Guinea-Bissau.
The Super Eagles, however, refused to give up and reduced the deficit in the 78th minute through Peter Edokpolor.
His goal brought Nigeria back into the contest and gave the visitors renewed hope of rescuing a result.
Nigeria completed their dramatic comeback deep into stoppage time when Akor Adams scored in the 94th minute to make it 3-3.
The late equaliser ensured the Super Eagles avoided another defeat after Russia had established a two-goal advantage in the second half.
The draw brings an end to Nigeria’s difficult September–October international window on a more positive note.
The Super Eagles had earlier defeated Madagascar 2-1 before suffering a 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their Afcon 2027 qualifying campaign.
Wale Adejumo
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