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Mikhail Gershkovich: Former Soviet Union striker warns Russia ahead of Super Eagles clash

Former Soviet Union striker Mikhail Gershkovich believes Nigeria will pose a serious challenge to Russia despite the Super Eagles being without several key players for their upcoming international friendly.
Russia are scheduled to face Namibia on October 3 before meeting Nigeria three days later. The clash against the Super Eagles is set for October 6 at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium in Nizhny Novgorod.
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle will be without several established players for the encounter, including former African Footballers of the Year Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
Premier League stars Frank Onyeka, Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi are also unavailable, while left-back Bruno Onyemaechi and youngster George Ilenikhena have been left out of the squad.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Femi Azeez and Zaidu Sanusi are also absent from the squad for the first international window of the 2026-27 season due to fitness concerns.
Despite the absences, Gershkovich expects Nigeria to remain a formidable opponent. He also believes Russia coach Valery Karpin could use the Namibia fixture to assess his squad before selecting a stronger side against the Super Eagles.
“The Russian national team has two more games. Against Namibia, as Karpin likes, we can try out the players,” Gershkovich told Championat.
“And against Nigeria, I expect the main lineup to be back in action. I’d like the team to consolidate this performance so we can enjoy it again.
“Nigeria is a tough opponent; even though they’ll be missing several key players, they have a lot of reserves. Whoever starts against them will be a serious force.”
Russia and Nigeria have met once previously, with the sides playing out a 1-1 draw at the Luzhniki Stadium. Tolu Arokodare scored for Nigeria after an own goal by Semi Ajayi had given Russia the lead.






