Russia vs Nigeria: Supersub Tolu Arokodare silences Moscow as Eric Chelle stays unbeaten

The Russia vs Nigeria friendly ended in a 1-1 draw in front of a packed crowd at the Luzhniki Stadium on Friday.

Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles, fielding a much-changed XI from the team that won the Unity Cup, fell behind in the first half, but found an equaliser after the break. Genk striker Tolu Arokodare, on as a substitute in the second half, pulled the game level following a defensive error from the hosts.

The result extends Chelle’s undefeated start to life as Super Eagles coach to five matches, three of which have been drawn.

Russia vs Nigeria: How did the match unfold?

After a slow start to proceedings, the hosts slowly gained the ascendancy, and took the lead in the 27th minute when Semi Ajayi could only divert a low cross into his own net.

Nigeria created by far the best chance of the half soon after, as neat work from Victor Boniface put Fisayo Dele-Bashiru through, only for the Lazio man to be denied by Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Matvey Safonov.

The start of the second half saw the momentum swing toward the visitors, but it was the introduction of Tolu Arokodare that proved pivotal.

The striker capitalised on a poor pass from the Russia goalkeeper to poke home a finish from close range to bring the game level in the 71st minute.