Super Eagles forward Akor Adams scored a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser as Nigeria fought back from 3-1 down to secure a 3-3 draw against Russia in an entertaining international encounter.
Adams struck in the fourth minute of added time, calmly finishing a counter-attack initiated by Emmanuel Fernandez and assisted by Umar Abdullahi to complete Nigeria’s remarkable comeback.
The Super Eagles made a bright start and took the lead inside the opening 15 minutes, dominating the early stages and earning praise for an impressive opening spell.
Russia responded in the 30th minute to draw level before taking control after the break.
Nigeria made two changes at half-time, introducing Adams and Abubakar Umar for Michael Stephen and Kelechi Iheanacho. However, the substitutions initially failed to halt Russia’s momentum as the hosts extended their lead to 3-1.
The Super Eagles refused to give up and began their fightback in the closing stages.
Edokpolor Peter, who had only recently come off the bench, reduced the deficit in the 78th minute after weaving his way through the Russian defence before firing into the net.
Nigeria continued to press for an equaliser, with Vince Osuji replacing Chibuzo Nwoko in the 83rd minute as the Super Eagles increased the pressure.
Their persistence finally paid off in stoppage time.
In the 94th minute, Fernandez launched a swift counter-attack before Abdullahi supplied the final pass to Adams, who kept his composure to find the net and make it 3-3.
The late strike completed a dramatic comeback for Nigeria, who had trailed 3-1 and looked set for defeat before a spirited fightback earned the Super Eagles a share of the spoils.
