Confirmed: Russia vs Nigeria – Super Eagles set high-profile friendly in Moscow

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will travel to Moscow for a high-profile international friendly against Russia on June 6, the Russian Football Union confirmed on Friday, Footynaija.com reports.

The match is scheduled to take place at the iconic Luzhniki Stadium, in what will be Russia’s return to their national stadium for the first time since a goalless World Cup qualifier against Croatia in 2021.

Ranked 43rd in the latest FIFA world rankings, Nigeria continue to gain international prominence following a strong run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where they narrowly lost 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast.

The Super Eagles, we’re waiting for you

Встречаемя на стадионе «Лужники» 6 июня. pic.twitter.com/sgnoDnTdeJ

— Сборная России (@TeamRussia) April 25, 2025

Boasting a squad packed with talent from elite European leagues, the Super Eagles’ clash with Russia will serve as a key test ahead of the summer’s competitive fixtures.

Familiar Nigerian faces in Russia include Chidera Ejuke and veteran forward Ahmed Musa, both of whom previously turned out for Russian giants CSKA Moscow.

Before heading to Russia, the Super Eagles will take part in the revived Unity Cup – an Afro-Caribbean invitational tournament returning for the first time since 2004. Set to be played at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, the competition will feature Nigeria, Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Nigeria are set to face fierce rivals Ghana in the second semi-final on May 28, with the winner progressing to the final on June 1.

The upcoming fixtures are expected to provide valuable preparation for Nigeria ahead of the next round of World Cup qualifiers later this year.