Debutant Abdullahi Umar makes huge promise after Russia cameo

Super Eagles and Hradec Králové forward Abdullahi Umar was the unsung hero for Nigeria in their 3-3 draw against Russia at the Sovcombank Arena last night.

The 19-year-old was one of nine players who made their debuts as Eric Chelle handed several new faces an opportunity against the hosts in Nizhny Novgorod.

Umar was introduced at half-time alongside Akor Adams as Nigeria looked to respond after Russia had turned Kelechi Iheanacho’s early opener into a 2-1 lead.

The hosts extended their advantage to 3-1 early in the second half, but Chelle’s changes eventually helped Nigeria secure a dramatic comeback.

Peter Edokpolor pulled one back in the 78th minute before Adams completed the comeback in stoppage time, with Umar providing the assist for the equaliser.

Abdullahi Umar makes dream Super Eagles debut

Umar’s involvement in the late goal gave him a memorable introduction to international football. With Nigeria pushing for an equaliser, Emmanuel Fernandez initiated a counter-attack, sending a long ball to Umar, who advanced and picked out Adams with an intelligent pass.

The Venezia striker made no mistake, turning the opportunity into a 94th-minute equaliser. Speaking to Footy-Africa after the match, Umar admitted that making his Nigeria debut was an emotional experience.

“I do not even know how I feel,” the youngster said, describing the occasion as something that felt like a dream.

The versatile attacker explained that representing Nigeria had always been an ambition and that finally stepping onto the pitch for the Super Eagles was a moment he was extremely proud of.

Umar also spoke about the reception he received from the more experienced members of the squad, revealing that the senior players helped the new arrivals settle into the team.

“Meeting the likes of Moses Simon and Kelechi Iheanacho, players I have admired from afar, was a beautiful thing, and they treated me and the new guys with love and respect.

“When I was told to come in, I told myself that it was a chance for me to show myself, and that I had to do my best, because those chances do not come all the time.”

Umar sets sights on more goals and assists

Umar came close to scoring during his cameo, but his biggest contribution arrived in the final seconds when he created the chance Adams converted.

For the teenager, seeing his pass result in Nigeria’s equaliser was a very satisfying moment.

“When the ball came to me, I saw senior man Akor running into the space between the two defenders, and I decided to cross the ball to him, and he scored, which made me happy.

“Getting an assist in my first game for my country gave me joy. I hope I will continue to score more and assist more if given the chance,” he added.

The assist gave the young forward a positive start to his international career, especially after he had admitted before the match that scoring on his debut was one of his personal ambitions.

Soccernet’s player ratings also singled Umar out for praise, describing his debut as “hugely encouraging” and noting that his movement behind Russia’s defence gave Nigeria a different attacking threat.

For Umar, though, the Russia game was only the beginning. The 3-3 draw gave him his first senior cap, his first international assist and valuable experience alongside his brother, Abubakar.

Now, the Hradec Králové forward wants to turn that memorable cameo into a sustained Super Eagles career.