What Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Said After to 1–1 Draw with Russia
Nigeria’s Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has shared his thoughts after the team’s 1–1 draw with Russia in an international friendly played on Friday at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.
Speaking after the match, Chelle praised the Russian team, saying, “The Russian team is a great team. Their players were very good – skilful and strong in pressing.” He added that the game was competitive and a draw was a fair result.
Chelle also appreciated the atmosphere at the stadium, describing the experience as “very good” and thanking the fans for their support.
Reflecting on the game, Chelle admitted that both teams had chances, and it was a tough contest. “Two strong teams played each other today,” he said.
He pointed out that the Super Eagles struggled under pressure, especially in the second half. “We will make changes. We need to improve when under pressure. This has been a problem in our last three games. In the second half, we hardly had the ball, and that was down to the pressure from the Russian players,” Chelle explained.
When asked about standout players from the Russian team, Chelle praised striker Nikolay Komlichenko, who wore the number 9 shirt. “He stood out. But Russia has many good players,” he said.
He also spoke highly of Russia’s organised style of play and their quick transitions, saying the draw in Moscow was “something to be proud of” considering the quality of the opposition.
Chelle was also full of praise for Nigerian winger Olakunle Olusegun, highlighting his pace, ball control, and strong mentality. “He has been in good form this week, but he still needs to improve at club level, especially by creating more assists,” the coach said.
Regarding Russia’s goal, which came after a mistake by the Nigerian goalkeeper, Chelle defended the position. “Mistakes happen in football – that’s how goals are scored. I don’t think the goalkeeper is the only one at fault. It was a team effort,” he explained. He also praised Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, saying, “He’s a top keeper. I follow the French league, and he’s very good.”
In conclusion, Chelle compared Russia’s style of football to Germany’s, calling it “a smart game with lots of movement.” He warned that visiting teams could find it difficult to play in Moscow if they are not fully prepared.
The draw was a solid result for the Super Eagles as they continue to build towards their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, with Chelle stressing the need to learn and improve from each game.
