Ndidi Withdraws From Russia Friendly

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has withdrawn from Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

The Besiktas midfielder was included in head coach Eric Chelle’s 24-man squad for the encounter at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium but will no longer be available for the fixture. The reason for his withdrawal has not been confirmed.

Ndidi was named captain of the squad when Chelle announced the team in September, alongside experienced players including Moses Simon, Stanley Nwabali, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Raphael Onyedika, Kelechi Iheanacho and Akor Adams.

The Super Eagles have already begun travelling to Russia ahead of the friendly, with members of the backroom staff and some Nigeria Premier Football League players departing Abuja on Thursday.

Chelle is expected to join the squad in Russia after he did not return with the team from Guinea-Bissau following Nigeria’s 3-0 defeat in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match.

The Russia friendly is expected to provide an opportunity for several players to gain international experience, with the coach also assessing options ahead of future national-team assignments.

Nigeria previously faced Russia in June 2025, when the Super Eagles held the hosts to a 1-1 draw in Moscow, with Tolu Arokodare scoring Nigeria’s equaliser.

The October 6 encounter will take place at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium as the Super Eagles continue preparations for upcoming international engagements.