• 07 Jun, 2025
• FAITH MIMDOO KEGH
• No comment

Arokodare Scores First Goal for Super Eagles in Draw Against Russia.

Genk striker Tolu Arokodare scored his first goal for the Ni

gerian national team as the Super Eagles secured a 1–1 draw against Russia in an international friendly match at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium on Friday.

Both teams entered the match with strong form. Nigeria was unbeaten in six previous games, a run that included victories over Ghana and Jamaica during the Unity Cup in London. Russia came into the match on an eight-game winning streak dating back to October 2023.

Russia opened the scoring in the first half when Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi accidentally turned a cross from Danil Krugovoy into his own net. The home side maintained their slim lead into halftime.

Nigeria almost equalized early in the second half through Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, but his shot was denied by Russia’s Matvey Safonov.

Russia missed a chance to extend their lead when Melekhin found himself unmarked in the box following a free kick, only for Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye to pull off an important save.

Head coach Eric Chelle made a key substitution just after the hour mark, bringing on Arokodare for Victor Boniface. The change paid off in the 71st minute when Safonov mishandled a clearance, allowing Arokodare to slot home a simple finish—his first international goal in his fourth appearance for the Super Eagles.

Russia pushed for a late winner, but Okoye made another crucial save to deny Aleksey Batrakov, and Dmitriy Barinov missed a late chance from close range.

The match ended in a draw, maintaining Nigeria’s unbeaten streak while ending Russia’s winning run.

FAITH MIMDOO KEGH

Manager – Oversees the daily operations, editorial planning, and strategic direction of the platform. A graduate with a solid academic foundation in media and communication, Faith brings a wealth of experience to the TokinPoint.

tokinpoint.com