Russia assistant coach makes a ‘bogus claim’ about Nigeria

According to a report by Russian outlet Championat on Friday, October 9, 2026, Russia assistant coach Nikolai Pisarev has made a controversial ‘bogus claim’ about Nigeria.

The coach suggested that the Super Eagles used their international friendly against Russia to showcase their fringe players to clubs in the Russian Premier League (RPL).

Pisarev made the remarks after Nigeria recovered from a two-goal deficit to secure a thrilling 3-3 draw against Russia in their international friendly at the Sovcombank Arena in Nizhny Novgorod on Tuesday.

The Super Eagles went into the encounter without several established stars, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Calvin Bassey.

The absences provided opportunities for younger and less experienced players to impress, with Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle handing international debuts to nine players during the encounter.

However, Pisarev suggested that the Nigerian team’s selection was an opportunity for the players to attract interest from Russian clubs.

In comments reported by the Russian outlet, the Russia assistant coach said:

“And you know, Nigeria’s second team has arrived… You know what to do? Show your mettle here in the RPL. Sell yourself. Their first team is doing just fine. Osimhen, Lookman and company, they’re doing just fine.”

Despite Pisarev’s remarks, Nigeria’s inexperienced squad demonstrated resilience by fighting back to earn a draw after appearing to be heading for defeat.

Kelechi Iheanacho gave the Super Eagles the lead in the 10th minute, but Russia responded with goals from Lechi Sadulaev and Matvey Kislyak to take a 2-1 advantage into half-time.

Aleksey Miranchuk extended Russia’s lead in the 54th minute, putting the hosts in a commanding position with a 3-1 advantage.

Nigeria, however, refused to surrender, with substitute Peter Edokpolor reducing the deficit in the 78th minute before Akor Adams scored a stoppage-time equalizer to complete the comeback.

The result offered the young Nigerian players an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities against a senior international side, with two teenagers directly contributing to the late recovery.

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