Russia vs Nigeria: 7 Super Eagles Players To Miss Friendly

At least seven Super Eagles players will miss Tuesday’s international friendly against Russia due to injuries, club refusals and residence permit issues.

The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, confirmed the withdrawals in an official statement released ahead of the game.

The players affected are captain Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Moses Usor, Akpe Victory, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ridwan Abdulrasaq Popoola and Suleiman Mubarak.

Ndidi picked up a knock during Nigeria’s 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier last week and was subsequently ruled out of the friendly.

Akpe Victory was also withdrawn after suffering an injury. Vince Osuji was called up to replace him, while Reims midfielder John Otomewo was brought into the squad for Ndidi.

The quartet of Raphael Onyedika, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ridwan Abdulrasaq Popoola and Moses Usor will also miss the match after their respective clubs blocked them from travelling with the national team.

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The withdrawals leave Nigeria with a significantly changed squad for the Russia encounter, as coach Éric Chelle prepares to give opportunities to other players in the team.