President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON), has declared the Super Eagles’ participation in the just-concluded Four-Nation Unity Cup Tournament in London and the high-profile friendly match against Russia as a resounding success, both on and off the pitch.

 

Speaking after the team’s return from Moscow, Gusau praised the outcomes of the 12-day football outing, stressing that Nigeria’s primary aim — evaluating new talent for future international engagements — was fully realized.

 

“I can tell you categorically that we achieved our sporting objectives, which were the most important in this case,” Gusau said. “The principal goal was to provide windows for the Coach and his crew to take a look at new players that might be positive additions to the team going forward.”

 

The Super Eagles, under head coach Eric Chelle, emerged champions of the Unity Cup after edging out Ghana 2-1 in a tense semi-final on May 28 at the Gtech Community Stadium, before beating Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz 5-4 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw in the final.

 

The team then traveled to Moscow, where they held hosts Russia to a 1-1 draw at the Luzhniki Stadium. Despite conceding an early own goal by Semi Ajayi, the Nigerians responded strongly with a second-half equalizer from Tolu Arokodare.

 

Gusau reflected positively on the performances throughout the matches, noting the emergence of new prospects and the solid displays from established squad members.

 

“Apart from the regulars that we already know, the tournament in London afforded us the opportunity to see players like Benjamin Frederick, Felix Agu, Christantus Uche, and Igoh Ogbu,” he said. “We saw more of Cyriel Dessers, and the home-based professionals – Papa Daniel Mustapha, Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, and Collins Ogwueze – did not fare badly either.”

 

Gusau highlighted goalkeeper Maduka Okoye’s return to form, captain William Troost-Ekong’s leadership in defense, and Uche’s growing influence, particularly in the Russia game.

 

“Now, we have options in defence, midfield, and the attack, and I am quite satisfied with the team’s output in the three matches,” he added. “These games have given us depth and flexibility as we look ahead to the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.”

 

With momentum building and a stronger squad at their disposal, the Super Eagles now shift focus to the high-stakes road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with confidence and clarity.