Maduka Okoye hails Russia’s resilience after Nigeria draw in Moscow

By Oluwadamilola Olaleye

Nigeria goalkeeper Maduka Okoye praised Russia’s resilience following a 1–1 draw in an international friendly on Saturday, a result that ended the host nation’s eight-match winning streak.

The Super Eagles held Valery Karpin’s side to a stalemate at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, with Okoye delivering a standout performance in his return to the starting lineup.

The Udinese shot-stopper was called upon after first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali left the national team camp due to personal reasons.

Okoye, speaking to Russian broadcaster Match TV after the match, lauded the quality of the opposition and the intensity of the encounter.

“The Russian team showed a very high level. We had to give it our all to play on equal terms with your team. I think it was a great match for the fans,” he said.

Despite Russia being currently suspended from UEFA and FIFA competitions, the match offered both sides a rare opportunity for high-level competition ahead of upcoming qualifiers.

The Super Eagles now shift their focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where they face a challenging path to secure a place in the tournament.