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

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clarified why captain Wilfred Ndidi, midfielder Raphael Onyedika, and six other players withdrew from the Super Eagles' friendly match against Russia. In a statement, the NFF cited injuries, club restrictions, and a documentation issue as the reasons for their absence. Ndidi and Basel defender Victory Akpe withdrew due to injury.

Onyedika could not join the team as his German club, Eintracht Frankfurt, prevented him from traveling. Bright Osayi-Samuel and Ridwan Abdulrasaq Popoola were also unable to attend due to their respective clubs' restrictions. Moses Usor, who scored in the 2-1 win over Madagascar, was also left out as Austrian club LASK refused his request to join the squad.

Suleiman Mubarak, who was in the running for his debut, was unable to participate due to an unresolved residence permit issue. With these withdrawals, the training camp is now left with 19 players, having previously been reduced from the original 18. The Eagles are aiming to improve upon their recent 1-1 draw with Russia in June 2025, where Semi Ajayi's own goal gave the Russians an early lead before Tolu Arokodare's equalizer.