Former Nigeria international Femi Ajilore has challenged the new faces in the Super Eagles to make their opportunities count against Russia, insisting Tuesday’s international friendly must be approached with the seriousness of a competitive fixture.
Ajilore, a member of Nigeria’s silver-medal-winning team at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, said expectations remain high despite the experimental nature of Eric Chelle’s squad, particularly after Nigeria’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their last 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
For the former FC Groningen midfielder, the meeting with Russia offers Nigeria an immediate opportunity to restore confidence while giving several emerging players the chance to prove they deserve more than a one-off invitation.
Ajilore stressed that those handed opportunities must show Chelle and Nigerians that they possess the quality and mentality required to remain around the senior national team.
The message comes as Chelle prepares to field a significantly altered squad in Nizhny Novgorod. Injuries, club restrictions and documentation issues reduced Nigeria’s options, with only 18 players initially available after several withdrawals.
The situation has opened the door wider for younger players including Ikorodu City midfielder Aderemi Adeoye and goalkeeper Michael Atata, while several other emerging talents are pushing for senior international recognition.
Chelle has similarly described the encounter as an important opportunity to assess his new players but has made clear that Nigeria still intend to win. The coach wants greater intensity and aggression after admitting those qualities were missing against Guinea-Bissau.
Ajilore believes that should be the mindset throughout the squad.
Russia will provide a demanding examination, having entered the fixture in strong form, while Nigeria are searching for a performance capable of changing the mood surrounding the team.
The countries last met in June 2025, playing out a 1-1 draw in Moscow after Tolu Arokodare cancelled out Semi Ajayi’s own goal.
For Ajilore, however, Tuesday is about the future as much as the result. For every newcomer handed the Nigerian shirt, Russia represents an audition and an opportunity to convince Chelle that when the established stars return, they should still have a place in the Super Eagles.
