Akor Adams charges Super Eagles to target victory against Russia
Akor Adams has challenged the Super Eagles to produce a strong performance and positive result when they face Russia in Tuesday’s international friendly in Nizhny Novgorod.
Nigeria will meet Russia for the second time in 16 months, following their 1-1 draw at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium in June 2025.
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Éric Chelle’s team will enter the latest meeting with several established players unavailable because of injuries, club restrictions and administrative issues.
Adams backs new players to seize opportunity
Captain Wilfred Ndidi is ruled out after picking up a minor injury against Guinea-Bissau, while Raphael Onyedika, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ridwan Abdulrasaq Popoola and Moses Usor were unable to travel because of their clubs.
Victory Akpe is also unavailable through injury, while Suleiman Mubarak missed the trip because of a residence permit problem.
The absences have created an opportunity for several less-experienced players, with some members of the squad expected to make their international debuts.
Adams, one of the more experienced players in the group, welcomed the newcomers but reminded them of the responsibility attached to wearing the Nigeria shirt.
“There are a lot of new boys in camp. I’m happy for them and congratulations for those who are going to make their debut in advance, but it’s still the Super Eagles and we know what we stand for,” Adams said in an interview released by the Nigeria Football Federation.
Chelle wants Super Eagles to compete for victory
The Venezia forward said Chelle has made the team’s objective clear despite the changes to the squad.
“The coach has made it clear that we are here to try our best to win,” Adams said.
He also expects Russia to provide a difficult test, pointing to the limited number of international fixtures available to their opponents.
“Russia is a very good team as well and I think they’re hungry to play games because of their peculiar situation.
“For us it’s to give our best. I know Nigerians are watching, they love football a lot and they love the Super Eagles a lot. We’ll try to come out with a good result and also a good performance,” he added.