Nigeria held Russia to a 1–1 draw in an international friendly thanks to a second-half equaliser from striker Tolu Arokodare, ending the host nation’s impressive winning streak.

The match, played in front of a vocal Russian crowd, saw the home side take the lead midway through the first half following sustained pressure. However, Nigeria responded strongly in the second half, with Arokodare rising to the occasion to level the score.

Arokodare’s goal marked a significant moment for the Super Eagles, as it was not only a personal highlight for the striker but also a psychological boost for the team heading into future fixtures. The equaliser brought an end to Russia’s run of consecutive wins in international fixtures, showcasing Nigeria’s resilience and tactical flexibility.

Head coach Eric Chelle, who fielded a mix of home-based players and foreign-based professionals, praised the team’s ability to respond after going behind. The draw is expected to serve as a key learning moment for the Super Eagles as they continue their preparations for the African Cup of Nations qualifiers.
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Editorial

A draw may not seem like a cause for celebration, but in football, context matters. For Nigeria, earning a 1–1 result away against Russia especially by ending their winning streak is more than a scoreline. It’s a signal that the Super Eagles are rediscovering the grit and balance that once made them Africa’s most feared side.
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Tolu Arokodare’s goal was more than just an equaliser