Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has rallied behind Russia goalkeeper Matvey Safonov following a critical error in their 1-1 international friendly draw on Friday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Safonov's mistake led to substitute Tolu Arokodare scoring the equalizing goal for Nigeria in the 71st minute.
Safonov's pass from defense was intercepted by Arokodare, who then placed the ball in the far right corner of the Russian shotstopper.
The match, held at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium, saw Semi Ajayi score an own goal in the first half.
When questioned about Safonov's blunder, Chelle emphasized that mistakes are an inherent part of the game. "Everyone makes mistakes – it's part of the game," he stated in a post-match interview. "Goals are scored precisely because of mistakes."
Chelle also praised Safonov, noting, "I don't think the goalkeeper is the only one to blame – it's the result of the entire team's actions. I follow the French championship, and I can say: you've a great goalkeeper."
By Olujimi Dare Ogun