Why Ndidi, Onyedika, others withdrew from friendly squad – NFF

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has provided details on why captain Wilfred Ndidi, midfielder Raphael Onyedika and five other players were unable to join the Super Eagles' friendly match against Russia. According to a statement from the NFF's Media Department, Ndidi and Basel defender Victory Akpe were forced to withdraw due to injuries.

Ndidi suffered a minor injury during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau. Additionally, Switzerland-based defender Victory Akpe was prohibited from traveling to Russia due to his injury. Midfielder Raphael Onyedika also withdrew from the trip, citing a restriction placed by his German club, Eintracht Frankfurt.

Defender Bright Osayi-Samuel and UAE-based midfielder Ridwan Abdulrasaq Popoola were likewise barred from joining the squad by their respective clubs. Forward Moses Usor was also absent, having been added to the original roster only after scoring his debut goal in the 2-1 victory over Madagascar on September 25. He was subsequently denied permission to travel by his Austrian club, LASK.

Head coach Éric Chelle had requested his presence but was subsequently denied. Nigeria hopes to recover from their recent loss to Guinea-Bissau following these setbacks. Suleiman Mubarak, who was also invited to join the team, could not participate due to an incomplete residence permit. After 18 players trained together on Sunday, Ibrahim Ajasa from Russian club FC Rostov joined the squad as a late addition, bringing the total to 19.

The final training session took place on Monday at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium. Russia, on the other hand, emerged stronger, defeating Iran 2-0 and then thrashing Namibia 6-0. The Super Eagles are seeking to improve upon their 1-1 draw against Russia in June 2025, where Semi Ajayi's own goal gave Russia the lead before Tolu Arokodare equalized.