Super Eagles fight back to draw Russia 3-3 in friendly
Nigeria showed plenty of character to fight back from 3-1 down and secure a 3-3 draw against Russia in Tuesday’s international friendly.
The Super Eagles looked vulnerable during a difficult first half, but a completely different performance after the interval saw Nigeria turn the game around and leave with a share of the spoils.
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Iheanacho still has a role to play
Kelechi Iheanacho gave Nigeria the perfect start with an effort from outside the box.
The Bursaspor forward found the bottom corner with a well-placed finish, showing the kind of quality that can make him a useful option in the Super Eagles attack.
His opener also provided Nigeria with an early platform, although Russia quickly responded.
Defensive mistakes proved costly
Nigeria’s defensive problems were exposed as Russia turned the game around before half-time.
Lechi Sadulaev punished a defensive error to restore parity before Matvey Kislyak completed Russia’s turnaround with another well-taken finish.
The mistakes left Nigeria trailing at the break despite taking the lead and highlighted an area that will require attention.
Russia punished Nigeria’s slow start
A difficult first half continued after the interval when Aleksey Miranchuk extended Russia’s advantage.
His finish put Russia 3-1 ahead and appeared to leave Nigeria facing defeat after conceding three unanswered goals.
The Super Eagles, however, refused to allow the game to slip away.
The substitutes changed the game
Nigeria’s comeback was heavily influenced by the players introduced from the bench.
Peter Edokpolor made an immediate impact after coming on, producing a superb curling finish into the top corner to reduce the deficit.
Umar Abdullahi also played a decisive role late in the match, laying the ball off for Akor Adams to calmly finish and bring Nigeria level.