Cherchesov calls Nigeria a strong test before Russia friendly

Former Russia international Stanislav Cherchesov has described Nigeria as a quality opponent ahead of the countries’ international friendly on October 6. Cherchesov, who coaches Russian Premier League club FC Akhmat Grozny, said the match in Nizhny Novgorod would give Russia a meaningful test despite uncertainty over the line-ups. His comments were reported by Championat and cited by Punch Nigeria.

“All teams, including ours, test something in friendly matches,” Cherchesov said. He added that Nigeria had a good standard and considerable experience, although he did not know which players would be selected. The match will be played at the 44,000-capacity Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, one of the venues used during the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

It comes 16 months after the teams drew 1-1 in Moscow, according to the supplied report. Nigeria coach Eric Chelle is expected to manage a number of absences for the trip. Bruno Onyemaechi, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen are among the players listed as likely to miss the encounter.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to travel after their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Guinea-Bissau in Bissau on September 29. Nigeria began that campaign with a 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar in Uyo. The previous meeting cited in the report took place at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium in June 2025.

Russia took the lead through an own goal by Ajayi before Tolu Arokodare equalised in the second half. The October fixture will be only the second meeting between the two countries, according to Punch Nigeria. Russia’s coaching staff will therefore use the match to assess their team against an opponent Cherchesov considers experienced, even if Nigeria’s personnel are changed.