Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has withdrawn from Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia scheduled for Tuesday, October 6 at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium.
The Besiktas midfielder was named in coach Eric Chelle’s 24-man squad for the encounter but will no longer be available. No official reason has been given for his withdrawal, though reports suggest it could be linked to a knock picked up in Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Madagascar in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers in Uyo.
Ndidi’s absence is a blow for Chelle, who had named him captain for the game. Defender Victory Akpe has also pulled out after receiving his first senior call up.
John Otomewo and Vince Osuji have been called up as replacements. Otomewo recently joined French side Stade de Reims from Hapoel Jerusalem, while Osuji plays for Norwegian club Tromso.
Nigeria arrived in Russia on Friday after departing Abuja on Thursday. The delegation was made up of backroom staff and NPFL players including Chibuzor Atata, Aderemi Adeoye and Kenneth Igboke. Head coach Chelle, who did not return with the team after the 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in Bissau, is expected to join the squad directly in Russia, while foreign based players will link up from their clubs.
Paris FC winger Moses Simon, who travelled with the team, is now expected to lead the side as the most experienced player available.
The friendly will be Nigeria’s second meeting with Russia in 17 months after a 1-1 draw at the Luzhniki Stadium in June 2025.
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