Russia 3-3 Nigeria: Edokpolor and Adams lead Super Eagles comeback in player ratings

Nigeria recovered from a difficult defensive display to draw 3-3 with hosts Russia in Tuesday evening’s international friendly, with substitutes Peter Edokpolor and Akor Adams making the biggest impact from the bench.

Here is how the Super Eagles players performed against the European side.

Starters

Samuel James – 4.5/10
The SJK goalkeeper made several useful saves during the first half, although he had little chance of stopping Russia’s goals.

Abdullahi Bewene – 5/10
Bewene created Nigeria’s opening goal for Kelechi Iheanacho, but his defensive performance was less convincing. Russia developed two of their goals through Nigeria’s right flank.

Benjamin Fredrick – 5.5/10
The Brentford defender was the strongest performer in an inexperienced and depleted Super Eagles backline.

Emmanuel Fernandez – 3.5/10
Fernandez will be unhappy with his contribution to Russia’s equaliser. His costly mistake allowed the hosts to regain momentum and level the match.

Isaac James – 5/10
James showed some of his defensive ability, despite Nigeria’s wider problems at the back.

Aderemi Adeoye – 4.5/10
The Ikorodu United midfielder offered a steady presence in the centre of the pitch but was unable to exert much influence on the contest.

Michael Stephen – 4/10
Stephen struggled to establish himself in midfield and was replaced at half-time.

Chibby Nwoko – 6.5/10
Nwoko provided encouraging signs for the future. The Fulham player showed flashes of quality and produced several skilful moments during his time on the pitch.

George Wilfred – 5/10
Wilfred found it difficult to help Nigeria keep possession as Russia applied pressure in midfield.

Kelechi Iheanacho – 7/10
Returning to the Super Eagles, Iheanacho produced an excellent finish from outside the penalty area and offered reminders of his attacking quality.

Moses Simon – 5/10
The Nigeria captain was unable to have his usual influence before being taken off in the second half.

Substitutes

Peter Edokpolor – 8.5/10
Edokpolor made an excellent international debut. His curling finish reduced Russia’s advantage and gave Nigeria renewed belief that they could complete a comeback.

Akor Adams – 8/10
The Venezia striker made an immediate contribution after coming on, scoring late to ensure Nigeria avoided defeat.

Abdullahi Umar – 7/10
Umar caused Russia’s defence persistent problems after his introduction and supplied the assist for Adams’ equaliser.

Umar Abubakar – 6/10
Introduced after the interval, Abubakar went close to scoring but injured the Russian goalkeeper in the process.

Vince Osuji – 5/10
Osuji came on in the 83rd minute for his international debut as Nigeria sought to protect the draw.

Ratings by Adeyemi Adewale.