Russia head coach Valery Karpin has acknowledged that his team will face a difficult test when they meet Nigeria’s Super Eagles in an international friendly.
Karpin is aware of the quality available to the Nigerian side and expects his players to remain focused throughout the contest. The Super Eagles possess several experienced footballers playing in major European leagues, giving Nigeria the ability to cause problems in attack.
Softfootball reports that the Russian coach sees the fixture as a useful opportunity for his players to compete against a strong international opponent. The match will also allow Russia to assess their squad against a different style of football.
Nigeria’s physical strength, pace and individual quality are among the areas Russia will need to manage carefully. Karpin believes his players must remain disciplined and avoid giving the Super Eagles unnecessary opportunities.
The Russian team will also be hoping to take advantage of their own strengths and use the home environment to their benefit. The coaching staff have prepared the squad for what they expect to be a competitive encounter.
Nigeria are a strong team and this will be a difficult battle for us. We have to be prepared for the quality they possess.
Karpin’s comments underline the respect Russia have for their opponents ahead of the meeting. Nigeria, meanwhile, will be hoping to produce a performance capable of matching the expectations surrounding the squad.
The friendly promises to provide both teams with valuable preparation and an opportunity to assess players ahead of future international commitments.
