Nigeria's Super Eagles kicked off their preparations in Nizhny Novgorod on Saturday night, holding their first training session ahead of Tuesday's international friendly against Russia.

The Nigerian delegation had touched down in Moscow on Friday, giving the squad time to settle before the midweek encounter at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium. Kick-off is set for 6pm Nigerian time.

Three players — captain Wilfred Ndidi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Akpe Victory — have withdrawn from the squad for various reasons. Head coach Éric Chelle has moved quickly to address the absences, calling up John Otomewo and Vince Osuji as replacements for Ndidi and Victory.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to hold one final training session on Monday before the game. Tuesday's match will be only the second senior international meeting between Nigeria and Russia.