Peter Osaze Odemwingie believes Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia on Friday, June 6, will live up to expectations.

The Olympic silver medallist, who chose to represent Nigeria despite his Russian heritage through his mother, said he will miss the match due to ongoing coaching courses, which run through June.

The 43-year-old praised Eric Chelle’s team for their recent improvement, especially following their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

According to Soccernet, Odemwingie also expressed plans to visit Russia in the coming months to witness the league’s progress following FIFA’s partial lifting of its ban. He said via Sport Express:

"I would love to watch this game live at the stadium but I am currently on a coaching course till the first two weeks of June. I hope to visit Russia in August and watch a few RPL games.

National Team Debut: 2002
Premier League Debut: 2010

Happy 42nd birthday to one of the finest Super Eagles forward who fulfiled his dreams.

Peter Osaze Odemwingie. pic.twitter.com/nvalNihjqs

— FAJ Sports (@FajSports) July 15, 2023

“I think the Russia-Nigeria match will be a great spectacle!”

Nigeria cannot rely on same players - Odemwingie

Former Bendel Insurance forward Peter Osaze Odemwingie has advised Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle not to rely solely on the same group of players for the upcoming international friendly.

According to All Nigeria, the former Lokomotiv Moscow star noted that many hungry and talented players are eager to prove themselves on the big stage.

Odemwingie added that the match will still be exciting despite the absence of Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen.

He also emphasised that the fixture offers a valuable opportunity for players without European contracts to showcase their talent to a global audience. He said via Championat:

“From the squad dropped by Eric Chelle, I see new names. I do not know half of them but I am sure they are talented and hungry to make an impact.

“The coach cannot always rely on the same players; I love it when new names appear; there will be more competition.

"This match is a fantastic opportunity for some of the players to cement themselves in the squad while others to show themselves to in Russia and Europe.