Russian football expert Vitaly Dyakov believes Nigeria's speed, physical strength and defensive organisation could make life difficult for Russia when the two sides meet in their international friendly.
The Super Eagles will lock horns with the 2018 Fifa World Cup hosts on Tuesday, October 6 at the Sovcombank Arena in Nizhny Novgorod.
Only Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and Venezia forward Akor Adams are confirmed members of Eric Chelle's preferred starting lineup in the final squad to face Russia, meaning the Malian tactician is expected to field a weakened side and hand senior debuts to several players.
Despite Nigeria without several key players, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi, Dyakov does not expect Russia to cruise to a comfortable victory.
"Even if they don't field their starting lineup, we won't be crushed. I think it's going to be a tough game for us," Dyakov said to Euro-Football.
"Besides their speed and physical fitness, they're also excellent at defending. If you watch the African Championship, many of them end 0-0 or 1-0. If the Nigerians lock down, it'll be hard to break them down."
Dyakov described Nigeria as one of the strongest teams in Africa and believes the match will provide Russia with a much tougher test than their previous friendly against Namibia.
"We'll finally be playing a strong opponent, but as I understand it, it won't be our full squad. Overall, they're one of the best teams on their continent. It'll be a more interesting match than the one against Namibia, whom we beat 6-0."
Russia and Nigeria have met just once previously, with the friendly ending in a 1-1 draw at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium in June 2025, after Tolu Arokodare's second half strike cancelled out Semi Ajayi's own goal.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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