Russia head coach, Valery Karpin has rejected Eric Chelle’s explanation that tactical changes enabled the Super Eagles to execute an impressive comeback during Tuesday’s 3-3 international friendly match in Nizhny Novgorod.
Nigeria appeared destined for defeat after Russia established a 3-1 lead early in the second half.
Kelechi Iheanacho provided the Super Eagles with an early lead in the 10th minute, but Lechi Sadulaev and Matvey Kislyak reversed the momentum before halftime.
Aleksey Miranchuk increased Russia’s lead in the 54th minute, positioning the hosts favorably to secure victory.
Nevertheless, Peter Edokpolor reduced the gap in the 78th minute before Akor Adams ensured Nigeria’s comeback with an equalizing goal in the fourth minute of added time.
After the encounter, Chelle stated that adjustments implemented to Nigeria’s attack during the second half created difficulties for the Russian team.
Karpin, conversely, disputed the assertion that Nigeria’s comeback resulted from substantial tactical modifications.
When asked if he concurred with Chelle’s perspective, the Russia coach responded directly: “What tactical changes? He introduced different players, and that was all. What additional tactical changes occurred?”
Karpin was questioned regarding Russia’s defensive vulnerabilities after surrendering three goals despite maintaining a two-goal lead late in the match.
He attributed the conceded goals to individual errors rather than a systemic tactical deficiency.
“It was an accident. Completely. The first goal – it was evident what transpired. The situation surrounding the third goal was quite peculiar,” the Russia coach stated.
Russia had dominated significant portions of the game and maintained their advantage following Nigeria’s second goal.
Karpin emphasized that he never experienced apprehension regarding his team’s ability to preserve the result, asserting that his players sustained their dominance throughout the match.
“No, there was no such concern. We maintained our superiority in the game. We conceded another goal following an error committed by our team during a goal kick,” Karpin concluded.