The Super Eagles walk into Nizhny Novgorod today with a squad that feels more like a survival mission than a friendly. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that the Super Eagles squad for the Russia friendly has been cut from 24 to 18 players. Captain Wilfred Ndidi, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Raphael Onyedika are among the biggest names missing.
Why the Super Eagles Squad Shrank to 18
Seven invited players dropped out, and the reasons read like a checklist of every international-break headache.
- Injuries: Ndidi picked up a minor knock in the 3-0 AFCON 2027 qualifier defeat to Guinea-Bissau on September 29 and has returned to Besiktas. Basel defender Victory Akpe is also out hurt.
- Club refusals: Eintracht Frankfurt blocked Onyedika. Birmingham City kept Osayi-Samuel at St Andrew’s. Al-Wasl stopped Ridwan Abdulrasaq Popoola. LASK also refused to release Moses Usor, the forward who scored on his debut against Madagascar.
- Paperwork: Slavia Prague’s Suleiman Mubarak was set for a debut, but his residence permit was not secured in time.
Who Is Left in Eric Chelle’s Squad?
Chelle still has plenty to work with. Stanley Nwabali leads the goalkeepers, and the attack features Kelechi Iheanacho, Moses Simon and Akor Adams. Benjamin Fredricks of Brentford and Emmanuel Fernandez of Rangers lead the defensive group.
Reims midfielder John Otomewo has been called up to cover for Ndidi, while Vince Osuji replaces Akpe. Both are in line for senior debuts. Late invitee Ibraheem Ajasa of FC Rostov has joined camp, so some outlets now count 19 players.
Who Wears the Armband Without Ndidi?
With Ndidi gone, leadership is a live question. Afrik-Foot argues Moses Simon has the strongest claim. Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi are not in the travelling group, which only adds to the puzzle.
Nigeria vs Russia: The Backdrop
This is only the second senior meeting between the sides. Their first, in Moscow on June 6, 2025, ended 1-1, with a Semi Ajayi own goal cancelled out by Tolu Arokodare. For Chelle, today is a chance to rebuild confidence after the heavy loss in Bissau and to see what his fringe players can do.
What to Watch Today
- Debut watch: Otomewo and Osuji could both get their first senior minutes.
- Midfield engine room: Without Ndidi and Onyedika, who sets the tempo?
- Attacking spark: Iheanacho, Simon and Adams have the freedom to make a statement.
- Chelle’s reaction: a patched-up squad is a real test of his tactical flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players are in the Super Eagles squad for Russia? The NFF says 18, though Ajasa’s late arrival means some reports now say 19.
Why is Ndidi missing? A minor injury from the Guinea-Bissau qualifier.
The Super Eagles may be short on stars, but a depleted squad often produces the best stories. Debutants, a new captain and a point to prove make this friendly worth watching.
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