Super Eagles: 2 key battles that could shape Russia clash

The Super Eagles take on Russia in an international friendly on Tuesday, hoping to recover from their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their last outing, Afrik-foot reports.

That result exposed several weaknesses in Eric Chelle’s team, especially the lack of physicality in midfield and their poor defensive organization.

They had began their campaign for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers with a 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar, before suffering that setback.

The Russia clash gives the Nigeria a chance to respond, but they will need to win several battles if they are to get the result they want.

Two battles that could shape Super Eagles’ clash with Russia

Nigeria’s new-look midfield vs Russia

One of the biggest battles could take place in the middle of the pitch. Nigeria will need to do a better job of keeping possession and stopping Russia from taking control of the game.

Chelle will be without several of his midfield generals for the clash, with captain Wilfred Ndidi pulling out with injury, while Raphael Onyedika will also miss the clash.

If the Super Eagles can dominate the midfield battle, they should have a better chance of creating opportunities for their forwards, giving them a greater chance of winning.

However, if Russia are allowed to control that part of the pitch, Nigeria could find themselves spending long periods defending.

Kelechi Iheanacho & Akor Adams against Russia’s backline

The other key battle will be at the opposite end of the pitch, where both Iheanacho and Adams could go up against the Russian backline.

Nigeria need their forwards to be much more effective after struggling to create enough danger against Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar.

Iheanacho and Adams would likely be the players who could be asked to provide the attacking threat, while Nigeria will also need better support from the players around them.

Russia’s defence will not make things easy, so the Super Eagles will have to be sharper when chances come their way.

For Adams in particular, the game could be an important opportunity to respond after a difficult outing against Guinea-Bissau.

Iheanacho, meanwhile, will be hoping for a solid display to boost his chances of returning to the setup on a more regular basis.