Chelle explains tactical change behind Nigeria’s 3-3 comeback against Russia

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has explained the tactical adjustment that helped Nigeria fight back from two goals down to earn a dramatic 3-3 draw against Russia in Tuesday’s international friendly.

Nigeria took an early lead through Kelechi Iheanacho but conceded twice before half-time and another goal early in the second half to fall 3-1 behind.

Late goals from Peter Edokpolor and Akor Adams completed the comeback in Nizhny Novgorod.

Chelle changes approach with his strikers

Speaking after the game, Chelle said Russia had controlled important periods around the end of the first half and beginning of the second.

The Malian coach said he subsequently adjusted the positioning and roles of his forwards.

According to Chelle, the change helped Nigeria find more space behind Russia’s defence and attack more effectively during transitions.

The tactical adjustment coincided with several substitutions.

Edokpolor, making his senior international debut, pulled Nigeria back to 3-2 in the 78th minute.

Akor Adams then equalised deep into stoppage time after Umar Abdullahi provided the final pass during a quick counter-attack.

Chelle praises second-half response

Chelle said he was particularly pleased with Nigeria’s performance after the break despite the defensive mistakes that had allowed Russia to build a two-goal advantage.

The coach praised his players for continuing to push forward rather than accepting defeat.

Nigeria fielded a heavily changed side because several originally invited players were unavailable through injuries, club restrictions and travel-documentation problems.

The NFF said nine players ultimately made their senior Nigeria debuts during the match.

The draw followed Nigeria’s 3-0 AFCON qualifying defeat to Guinea-Bissau.