Nigeria's senior men's national team will face Russia in a friendly match today as the Super Eagles look to respond positively after their disappointing 0-3 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The defeat left Nigeria second in their group, behind Guinea-Bissau, who moved ahead following their victory over the Super Eagles.

Nigeria will travel to Russia without captain Wilfred Ndidi, who played through the pain barrier during Tuesday’s defeat. The midfielder has now been ruled out of the friendly as the team prepares for the next phase of its international commitments.

Newly invited Mubarak Suleiman of Slavia Prague will also miss the game. The youngster was initially expected to recover in time to feature, but his injury has ruled him out.

Despite the absences, head coach Eric Chelle has enough players at his disposal to prosecute the friendly.

The match will also provide Chelle with an opportunity to assess several players as he continues preparations for his role with Nigeria’s U-23 team. The encounter is expected to give a number of players valuable playing time as the coach evaluates his options for future assignments.