Bewene reveals what Super Eagles want from Russia clash
Super Eagles defender Abdullahi Bewene says Nigeria are determined to get a positive result against Russia and rebuild confidence after their heavy defeat to Guinea-Bissau.
The Super Eagles will face Russia at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on Tuesday in their final game of the international window.
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Eric Chelle’s side are looking to respond after suffering a 3-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau in their second Group L match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Bewene: We respect Russia but fear no one
Bewene, who made his Nigeria debut in June during a 2-2 draw with Poland, has returned to the national team after missing the squad for the opening AFCON qualifiers.
The 21-year-old admitted he would have liked to be involved in those matches but said he remains grateful for another opportunity with the Super Eagles.
“Russia at home are very dangerous and will cause us a lot of problems, but we will be ready for them. We respect them, but we do not fear anyone,” Bewene told Footy-Africa.
The defender believes Nigeria must give everything against Russia and secure a result capable of restoring confidence within the squad.
“We will give it our best shot and hopefully get something from the game,” he added.
Bewene also welcomed the age profile of the current squad, saying Chelle is building a team with the future in mind.
Super Eagles need response after Guinea-Bissau defeat
Nigeria began their AFCON qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar, with George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scoring on their international debuts.
That promising start was followed by the defeat in Bissau, leaving the Super Eagles second in Group L, three points behind Guinea-Bissau with two matches remaining.
Nigeria’s qualification challenge is complicated by Tanzania’s status as one of the 2027 AFCON co-hosts, meaning only one other team from the group will qualify.
For Bewene, the Russia game provides an opportunity to put the disappointment behind them.
“Nigeria has a lot of talent, and for me to be here is a blessing. We will do our best to get a good result, which will boost our confidence going forward,” he said.
Nigeria drew 1-1 with Russia when the sides last met in 2025 and will now be seeking a victory in Nizhny Novgorod on Tuesday.
The Super Eagles will return to competitive action in November with a double-header against Tanzania as they continue their bid to reach the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.