Peter Edokpolor announced himself on the international stage with a crucial debut goal as Nigeria fought back from 3–1 down to draw 3–3 with Russia in Nizhny Novgorod.
The 19-year-old defender came off the bench and scored in the 78th minute, cutting Russia’s lead to 3–2 and giving the Super Eagles belief before Akor Adams completed the comeback deep into stoppage time.
Edokpolor’s intervention came at a critical point in a match that had threatened to become another setback for Nigeria.
Kelechi Iheanacho had put the visitors ahead after 10 minutes, but Russia responded with goals from Lechi Sadulaev and Matvey Kislyak to lead 2–1 at half-time.
Miranchuk then struck in the 54th minute to make it 3–1, leaving Nigeria with a steep mountain to climb.
Instead, Chelle’s young side mounted a late response. Edokpolor provided the first breakthrough, driving Nigeria back into the contest before Adams delivered the decisive moment in the 94th minute to secure a 3–3 draw.
The comeback was particularly significant given the composition of the Nigerian squad. Several established players were unavailable, forcing Chelle to experiment with new personnel, while Radio Nigeria reported that nine players made their senior international debuts during the encounter.
Iheanacho’s early goal also marked a significant return for the experienced forward, who provided Nigeria with an early attacking spark before being replaced at half-time.
Adams’ late equaliser ensured the newcomers left Nizhny Novgorod with a result to remember, but Edokpolor’s 78th-minute intervention may prove equally important for a Nigeria side searching for greater squad depth.
After a difficult 3–0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in AFCON qualifying, the Super Eagles could not secure victory in Russia, but their recovery from 3–1 down offered Chelle valuable evidence about the character and potential of his reshaped squad.