Russia head coach Valery Karpin has minimized concerns about Nigeria missing key players Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman ahead of Friday's international friendly match at Luzhniki Stadium.
During Thursday's pre-match press conference, Karpin pointed out that his own squad will be without important players as well.
"By the way, our leaders – Diveev, Golovin – did not come either," Karpin stated when questioned about the absence of Nigeria's star forwards.
Preparation Remains Consistent
The Russian tactician emphasized that his team's approach to the match would not change despite facing a Super Eagles side missing some of their European-based talents.
"The requirements are always the same – regardless of the opponent," he said. "We prepare the way we should prepare, taking into account the characteristics of a particular team."
Russia enters the friendly in good form after an impressive 5-0 victory over Zambia in their previous outing. Meanwhile, Nigeria comes into the match with momentum following their triumph over Jamaica in the Unity Cup final.
The Super Eagles arrived in Moscow with captain William Troost-Ekong expressing confidence about securing a positive result against the hosts.
The international friendly is scheduled to kick off at 6 p.m. Nigerian time on Friday at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.
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