Arokodare Scores First Super Eagles Goal as Nigeria Hold Russia; Troost-Ekong Marks 10-Year Milestone

Nigeria was held to a draw against Russia at the fully packed 78,011-capacity Luzhniki Stadium.

Russia took the lead in the 27th minute after Semi Ajayi mistakenly put the ball into the back of his own net.

Tolu Arokodare equalised in the 71st minute to draw Nigeria level. The Super Eagles pushed for a winner, but the goal never came.

After the game, Eric Chelle stated: “We will make changes, we will work on playing under pressure, because this problem has already arisen in the last three matches,” Chelle said.

“We need to learn to cope with the opponent’s pressing – this was especially noticeable in the second half, when we were practically left without the ball. This is thanks to the Russian footballers.”

It is now two draws from Eric Chelle’s first five games in charge. His results so far are as follows:

Rwanda 0-2 Nigeria

Nigeria 1-1 Zimbabwe

Nigeria 2-1 Ghana

Nigeria 2-2 Jamaica (won 5-4 via penalties)

Russia 1-1 Nigeria

Aside from Arokodare scoring his first goal for the Super Eagles, there was another positive to take. Captain William Troost-Ekong marked ten years in the national team.

He posted on his official X handle, @WTroostEkong:

“10 YEARS REPRESENTING 🇳🇬 13.06.2015 – 06.06.2025

I will never forget the ‘Big Boss’ Stephen Keshi for believing in me to make my debut in Kaduna that day a decade ago.

79 caps, 5 major tournaments, 3 medals later. It is my biggest pride to be the captain of this nation & team. No dream is ever too big. This is my purpose, and I will continue to strive to be better every day.

GRATEFUL!”

Nigeria will now look ahead to their remaining FIFA World Cup qualifiers as they hope to book a place in the USA next year.