FIFA-banned Russia unfazed, sets date for Super Eagles friendly

34th-ranked Russia has announced an international friendly match against the Super Eagles of Nigeria despite being banned by FIFA, Soccernet.ng reports.

Since 2022, Russian teams have been barred from participating in FIFA-sanctioned tournaments, including the World Cup qualifiers.

While friendly matches are not explicitly covered under FIFA’s ban, most national teams have avoided scheduling games against Russia to align with the international football governing body’s stance.

Despite being banned by FIFA, the Russian Football Union (RFU) has confirmed their 2025 fixture with the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a statement.

Part of the statement reads: “The Russian Football Union has reached agreements with the football federations of Zambia, Nigeria and Belarus to hold friendly matches in the nearest FIFA windows. In March, Valery Karpin’s team will play against Zambia. The game will be held in Moscow, the exact time and place of the meeting will be announced later.

“On June 6, the Russian national team will play a home match with Nigeria, and on June 10 it will play away with the national team of Belarus. The venues and start times of the matches will be announced later.”

The upcoming friendly match is expected to provide both teams with valuable preparation for Nigeria ahead of their continental commitments.

Further details regarding the venue and time of the match are anticipated to be announced in the coming weeks.