Nigeria’s 2–0 quarter-final win over Algeria sent the Super Eagles into a record 16th AFCON semi-final, but beyond the goals, it once again underlined how complete this Nigerian side has become under Eric Chelle.
Victor Osimhen’s opener was pure class. Akor Adams’ finish ten minutes later was something else entirely – a moment that summed up his rapid rise from new call-up to trusted pillar of Nigeria’s attack.
Former Super Eagles striker Victor Ikpeba believes Adams’ impact is no accident.
What a tournament Akor Adams is having ? pic.twitter.com/6dARAmjGVK
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Semi-Final Scorer
Akor Adams’ journey with Nigeria began quietly, but with purpose. Before taking over the Super Eagles, Chelle first spotted Adams while managing Mali, keeping tabs on him during his time in Ligue 1 while watching Malian players at Montpellier.
That long-term interest translated into faith. Adams was handed his Nigeria debut in October, scored immediately against Lesotho, and has not looked back since.
Against Algeria, that trust was repaid. After missing an early one-on-one, Adams responded in the best possible way – timing his run perfectly, accepting Osimhen’s selfless pass, and finishing calmly to put the game beyond doubt.
More Than Just Goals
Ikpeba was quick to stress that Adams’ value cannot be measured by goals alone.
“I personally have been really impressed with Akor Adams, just his movement and how unselfish he is,” Ikpeba said. “He’s shown that he is the future.”
Throughout AFCON 2025, Adams has been the connective tissue of Nigeria’s front three. His decoy runs, hold-up play and intelligent positioning have allowed Osimhen and Ademola Lookman to thrive, dragging defenders out of shape and creating space for runners from midfield.
That selfless work was evident again against Algeria, where Nigeria dominated possession and territory, suffocating the North Africans from the first whistle.
Faith From the Manager
Ikpeba also pointed to Chelle’s role in Adams’ development, praising the coach’s belief in a striker still new to international football.
“Lots of credit to the manager. He had the faith in him and saw the potential,” Ikpeba said. “We already knew he had those qualities playing for Sevilla, so we’re very proud.”
That belief has been rewarded quickly. Adams now has four goals in nine Super Eagles appearances, including strikes in World Cup qualifiers and two crucial goals at AFCON, alongside multiple assists in the knockout rounds.
Built for Tournament Football
Physically dominant, tactically intelligent and technically secure, Adams looks made for international football.
“He’s a big lad, it’s not easy to play against him,” Ikpeba added. “He’s quick with the ball and he can strike it really well.”
Perhaps most impressively, he has slotted into this side seamlessly, showing none of the hesitation expected of a player featuring in his first AFCON.
“He looks like he’s been playing for the Super Eagles for years,” Ikpeba said.
Focus Turns to Morocco
With Nigeria now preparing for a semi-final showdown against Morocco, Adams’ role will once again be pivotal — not just in scoring, but in making the entire attack function.
Ikpeba’s message, however, was measured.
“He needs to remain focused and not get carried away.”
So far, Adams has done exactly that – growing game by game, moment by moment, on Africa’s biggest stage.
