Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has withdrawn from Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia scheduled for Tuesday in Nizhny Novgorod.
The Birmingham City full-back becomes the third player to leave Nigeria’s travelling squad ahead of the encounter, following captain Wilfred Ndidi and Basel defender Victory Akpe.
No official reason has been given for Osayi-Samuel’s withdrawal. Ndidi reportedly suffered a knock during Nigeria’s recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau, while Akpe sustained an injury during training.
Osayi-Samuel featured in Nigeria’s 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau on September 29, playing at right-back as the Super Eagles suffered a setback in their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
Head coach Éric Chelle had earlier replaced Ndidi and Akpe with Stade Reims midfielder John Otomewo and Tromsø defender Vince Osuji. The technical crew will now have to consider another replacement as they prepare for the Russia encounter.
The Super Eagles have already begun preparations in Nizhny Novgorod, with several senior players participating in their first training session.
Nigeria and Russia previously met in a friendly in Moscow in June 2025, with the match ending 1-1 after Tolu Arokodare equalised for the Super Eagles.
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