Coach Eric Chelle has charged the Super Eagles to continue to work on their pressing game ahead of crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers after they forced hosts Russia to a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Moscow.
Nigeria fought back from a first-half own goal by defender Semi Ajayi to draw level with Russia in the second half through substitute striker Tolu Arokodare Friday night.
In September, the Super Eagles will resume the qualifying series for the 2026 World Cup with a home game against Rwanda and then an away trip to group leaders South Africa.
Eric Chelle said he has made many changes to the squad and the new players need to adapt to how the team press forward.
“We have made lots of changes to the squad, our usual pressing game was a bit difficult, the new players are yet to fully understand how we want to play, so we need to keep working on our playing pattern and try to find balance,” he said.
He admitted that Russia presented his team with a stern test.
“It was not an easy game because we played against a very good team,” he remarked.
“Russia have a good team with lot of pressure and technical quality.
“They had their chances in first half and they took it, we had our chance but the goalkeeper saved it.
“In the second half, Russia had two chances, but we had a chance and we scored
He added: “We didn’t play well in first half, we didn’t enforce our pressing game so well, but we were better in the second half with our pressing and that made the difference for us.”
