Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has admitted that Russia made things difficult for the team in their international friendly.
Nigeria and Russia battled to a 1-1 draw at the Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow, on Friday night.
Okoye made a number of crucial saves to prevent the Super Eagles from losing the game.
The Udinese shot stopper claimed they had to dig deep to come out unscathed.
“The Russian team showed a very high level. We had to give it our all to play on equal terms with them. I think it was a great match for the fans,” he told Match TV.
Okoye also commented on the atmosphere at the stadium and the match ball.
“The balls were a little easier than usual,” he added.
“But overall, everything was fine. I really liked the atmosphere at the stadium.”