Super-sub Arokodare rescues draw for Super Eagles, ends Russia’s winning run

Toluwase Arokodare came off the bench to score his first goal for Nigeria, salvaging a 1-1 draw against Russia and bringing an end to the hosts’ winning streak in an international friendly at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

The Super Eagles, missing key attackers including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Cyriel Dessers, endured a tough first half under sustained Russian pressure. Their struggles were compounded when defender Semi Ajayi inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing the home side a deserved lead.

Victor Boniface, leading the line in the absence of Nigeria’s more established forwards, found it difficult to impose himself and was eventually replaced in the second half.

That substitution proved pivotal. In the 71st minute, Arokodare pounced on a poor back pass and capitalised on a goalkeeping error to calmly slot home the equaliser—marking a memorable moment for the young striker and a crucial lifeline for Nigeria.

Russia continued to press, but Nigeria’s defensive organization and disciplined approach ensured they held firm to secure the draw.

The result extends head coach Eric Chelle’s unbeaten run since taking charge and offered a timely confidence boost for the squad, especially given the absence of several first-team regulars.