Russia Confirms Date, Venue For International Friendly Game With Super Eagles

Russia Confirms Date, Venue For International Friendly Game With Super Eagles

According to a report by All Nigeria Soccer, the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, will take on Russia in a prestigious international friendly scheduled for June 6, 2025, at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. The fixture was officially confirmed on Friday, April 25, by the Russian Football Union through its media channels.

The friendly marks a significant milestone for both nations. It will be Russia’s return to their national stadium for the first time since their goalless draw against Croatia in a 2021 World Cup qualifier. For Nigeria, currently ranked 43rd in the FIFA world rankings, the game is another opportunity to test themselves against strong European opposition as they prepare for upcoming international competitions.

Nigeria’s recent performances have earned the team increased recognition on the global stage. The Super Eagles were runners-up at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, narrowly losing 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast in the final. Their squad boasts a talented core of players who ply their trade in elite leagues across Europe, including the English Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1.

The game will also carry special significance for some of Nigeria’s past and present stars. Winger Chidera Ejuke and veteran forward Ahmed Musa, both former players for Russian club CSKA Moscow, are expected to be among the familiar faces in the squad.

Before traveling to Russia, the Super Eagles will participate in the Unity Cup — a revived Afro-Caribbean football tournament last held in 2004. Set to take place at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, the competition features Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago. Nigeria will face arch-rivals Ghana in the second semifinal on May 28.

The clash against Russia is expected to draw global attention, offering fans a glimpse of high-quality international football and providing both teams with vital preparation ahead of future qualifiers and tournaments.

The Luzhniki Stadium, one of the largest and most historic football venues in Eastern Europe, is expected to be near capacity as the Russian public welcomes the Super Eagles in what promises to be an exciting international fixture.