Russia defender Arsen Adamov has described Nigeria as a very strong opponent ahead of their international friendly on October 6. The Super Eagles will face Russia at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium during the October international break, Bold Sports reports.
Adamov has featured regularly for Akhmat Grozny this season. He has made nine Russian Premier League appearances. He also provided an assist in Akhmat’s 4-1 win over Rostov on August 22.
The 26-year-old right-back already knows what Nigeria can offer. He was part of the Russia team that drew 1-1 with the Super Eagles in June 2025.
Nigeria will enter the October meeting after two competitive fixtures. Eric Chelle’s team will first host Madagascar on September 25. They will then travel to Guinea-Bissau for another 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on September 29.
Russia, meanwhile, have three international fixtures scheduled during the break. They will meet Iran in Kazan on September 29 before facing Namibia on October 3. The Super Eagles will then provide their final opponent in Nizhny Novgorod on October 6.
Adamov expects the Nigeria and Iran matches to attract plenty of attention.
”This isn’t the first time we’ve played Iran and Nigeria; they’re very strong teams. There will be interesting matches for us and for the fans. Iran and Nigeria are very strong opponents.”
Adamov also admitted that he knows little about Russia’s other opponent, Namibia. However, he expects the African side to provide another difficult test.
”The only thing is, I don’t know anything about Namibia. African teams are strong. I think it won’t be easy against them either.”
His comments come as Russia prepare for a busy international period. Nigeria will also have to manage two AFCON qualifiers before turning attention to the friendly.
Chelle has named separate squads for the AFCON qualifiers and Russia match. The Nigeria setup includes several established internationals, while the Russia roster features a number of different options for the October fixture.
The October 6 meeting will therefore give both teams another opportunity to assess their squads against international opposition.
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