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Alexander Bubnov believes Russia would not beat Nigeria if the Super Eagles arrive with their strongest team, and Victor Osimhen is one of the main reasons why, Footynaija reports.
Speaking on Komment.Show, via Championat, the former Russian defender was asked about Russia’s upcoming friendlies against Iran, Namibia and Nigeria.
“So, against Iran… If Iran plays with the same lineup they had at the World Cup, we won’t win. I don’t even know what kind of team Namibia is. I’ve never seen one in my life. I admit they could win big,” Bubnov said.
“Against Nigeria… The Nigerians, too, if they come to play with their main lineup… We won’t win.”
That warning comes with Nigeria possessing an attack that can stretch a defence in different ways.
Osimhen is the focal point after his 2025-26 season with Galatasaray, when he scored 22 goals and supplied eight assists in 33 official matches. He also scored 26 league goals during his loan season in 2024-25 and finished as the Süper Lig’s top scorer.
A full-strength Nigeria could give Osimhen support from Ademola Lookman, who joined Atlético Madrid from Atalanta earlier in the year. The 28-year-old can play on either wing or as a second striker, giving Chelle an attacker who can run behind defenders or carry the ball inside.
Tolu Arokodare adds another option. The 25-year-old joined Ajax from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a season-long loan in 2026, with an option to buy. Standing at 1.97 metres, he offers a very different problem to Osimhen and can give Nigeria a powerful target inside the box.
A possible strongest XI could be Stanley Nwabali in goal, Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi in defence, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in midfield, Lookman and Femi Azeez supporting Osimhen.
