Nigeria vs Russia: Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Says Super Eagles Are Here to Win

Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle says Tuesday's friendly against Russia is a big chance for Nigeria's younger players to prove themselves on the international stage.

Nigeria face Russia on October 6 at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, with several regulars unavailable due to injuries, club restrictions and other commitments.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Chelle admitted his side were far from their best in that game, but believes the Russia clash is the perfect opportunity to respond.

“We played badly last time, and tomorrow we will have the opportunity to correct that. We need to continue working, training and showing everything we can,” he said.

The coach also revealed that Nigeria arrived in Russia with a depleted squad, with some clubs reluctant to release their players and others missing through injury. As a result, several young players have been drafted in, giving them a chance to impress against a strong Russian side.

“Given the current situation, clubs are reluctant to send their players here. Because of this, we’ve brought in a number of very young players,” Chelle said.