Super Eagles and Banik Ostrava defender Abdullahi Bewene in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has claimed that the friendly against Russia is another chance to show what he can do for Nigeria.
“Like I told you last time, I am very happy to be back in the national team after my previous outing before the World Cup, when we played Poland and Portugal. I would have loved to make the squad for the AFCON qualifiers, but I am still happy to be part of this team.”
“It is always a good feeling when your talent is recognised and appreciated, and I am very grateful for this chance. I do not take it for granted. Russia at home are very dangerous and will cause us a lot of problems, but we will be ready for them. We respect them, but we do not fear anyone.”
Abdullahi Bewene relishes Super Eagles recall for Russia friendly
“We will give it our best shot and hopefully get something from the game. I am also happy that most of the group are within a certain age range, which means the coach is building for the future, and luckily, he sees me as part of that. Nigeria has a lot of talent, and for me to be here is a blessing. We will do our best to get a good result, which will boost our confidence going forward,” he added.
He was named in Eric Chelle‘s squad for the trip to Russia after missing the cut for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Super Eagles’ international friendly against Russia takes place on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium.
The defender, who can also play as a wing-back, said he wants to use the game to show Nigerians once again what he is capable of.
The 21-year-old was not listed for the AFCON qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, but made the list for the Russia game.
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The squad is made up mostly of players under the age of 23, who are being primed to form part of Chelle’s set-up for the start of the U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which begin soon.
Abdullahi Bewene has two caps for Nigeria and made his debut agaiinst Poland earlier this year in June.
