Wilfred Ndidi, Super Eagles captain wearing the number 4 Nigeria national team jersey with captain’s armband, raises his right hand while standing in the rain during a match at a packed stadium
Captain Ndidi during Bissau vs Nigeria AFCON Qualifiers


Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has withdrawn from Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia. 

The Besiktas midfielder was set to lead an experimental squad selected by head coach Éric Chelle. Official reports confirmed the pull-out on 30 September 2026, just days after Ndidi captained the team in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

The match is scheduled for Tuesday, 6 October 2026, at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium in Russia. Chelle named the 24-man group in mid-September, mixing experienced players such as Stanley Nwabali and Moses Simon with several uncapped talents. 

The fixture was planned as a chance to test squad depth following the recent qualifying games. No specific reason for Ndidi’s absence has been publicly detailed by the Nigeria Football Federation or the coaching staff.

Ndidi featured prominently in the qualifiers, starting both matches. His withdrawal leaves a gap in midfield for the trip to Russia. Part of the Super Eagles party, including domestic-based players and backroom staff, is expected to depart soon for the friendly.