Related Post
Russia midfielder Mikhail Shchetinin has voiced his disappointment at not facing Nigeria’s star striker Victor Osimhen during the 1–1 draw between both nations in Friday’s international friendly at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium, Footynaija.com reports.
Shchetinin, who featured prominently for Russia, revealed he had looked forward to the challenge of going up against the prolific Super Eagles forward.
“To be honest, it’s a shame that not all the Nigerian team players came. It would have been interesting to see Osimhen from Galatasaray,” he told Championat.
Osimhen, who spent last season on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, delivered a career-best campaign, scoring 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 appearances. His sensational form has fueled transfer speculation, with top European clubs and Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal reportedly circling.
To avoid any injury setback ahead of a potential summer move, Osimhen and Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle reportedly agreed that the striker would sit out Nigeria’s friendlies in May and June.
Other key players such as Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ola Aina were also absent from the Moscow trip due to injuries or personal commitments.
Despite the notable omissions, Shchetinin was impressed by Nigeria’s display. “A good team came to Russia. Boniface. It was interesting to see them,” he added, referring to striker Victor Boniface, who started before being replaced by Tolu Arokodare.
On goalkeeper Matvei Safonov’s error for Nigeria’s goal, Shchetinin said: “Honestly, we didn’t discuss the moment with the second goal. Of course, Safonov is upset. But we will conduct a theory session where we will discuss it.”
Osimhen is Nigeria’s second all-time highest goalscorer behind the legendary Rashidi Yekini.
