Iheanacho Leads Eagles Arrival In Russia After Bissau Shock

Kelechi Iheanacho led the Super Eagles’ arrival in Nizhny Novgorod on Friday evening as Nigeria began preparations for Tuesday’s international friendly against Russia, with the team seeking to recover from their damaging 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau.

Iheanacho’s return is one of the major talking points ahead of the friendly, with the striker back in the Nigeria squad for the first time since May 2025.

The 29-year-old has earned his recall on the back of a prolific start to the season with Turkish second-tier club Bursaspor, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists in eight appearances.

His goalscoring form will offer coach Eric Chelle another attacking option as the Eagles look to respond to the heavy defeat in Bissau.

The Guinea-Bissau loss has left Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations under pressure, with the Eagles now facing the possibility of missing the finals for the first time since 2017.

Nigeria have also missed the last two World Cup tournaments, making the team’s recent run of results particularly concerning.

The defeat in Bissau has also seen the Super Eagles slide six places in the latest live FIFA ranking, from 25th to 31st.

The Russia friendly in Nizhny Novgorod will therefore provide Chelle and his players with an opportunity to regain confidence and begin rebuilding momentum.

The Eagles’ camp officially opened on Friday following their arrival, with players expected to continue preparations for Tuesday’s encounter.