Ex-Lokomotiv president slams NFF over bringing benchwarmers for Russia test

By Wale Mustapha

Former Lokomotiv Moscow president, Nikolai Naumov, has criticized the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for failing to include several key players in the Super Eagles squad set to face Russia in an international friendly on Friday.

The match is scheduled to take place at the iconic Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, with the Russian national team hosting the three-time African champions.

However, Nigeria will be without a number of its top stars, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ola Aina.

Naumov, expressed disappointment at the weakened Nigerian lineup, accusing the NFF of poor planning and disrespecting the match agreement.

“The non-arrival of key [Super Eagles] players for the friendly match against Russia is very bad,” Naumov said, speaking to local outfit, Championat.

“When we agree to play a friendly with any national team, we incur significant expenses for flights and accommodation. In return, we expect the best possible squad from our opponents—unless there are injuries or other emergencies.”

The veteran football administrator went further, describing the squad selected by Nigeria as substandard.

“When the Nigerian national team agrees to such a match, their management must ensure proper coordination with their players in advance,” he added. “Now they are bringing beach footballers.”

The remarks come as Nigeria continues to experiment with a mix of foreign-based and homegrown talent under head coach Eric Chelle, who has defended his decision to give opportunities to emerging players.