Super Eagles striker Akor Adams has temporarily exited Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 camp following the team’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16 on Monday night. The departure was confirmed in an official update shared by the Nigeria Football Federation, with the forward granted compassionate leave to attend to a family emergency.
Adams, who plays his club football for Sevilla and has quickly become a key attacking option for Nigeria, learned that his mother had been admitted to hospital just hours before kickoff. Despite receiving the news earlier in the day, the 25-year-old chose to play and made a memorable contribution by scoring Nigeria’s fourth goal in Fès.
The NFF statement read: “Akor Adams has been granted permission to leave camp to go be with his mum, who was hospitalised yesterday. We’re sending prayers and strength to him and wishing his mum a quick recovery.”
Adams’ strike in the 75th minute was his first goal at the Africa Cup of Nations, capping a strong individual performance in Nigeria’s comprehensive win over the Mambas. Earlier in the game, Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen had already put the Super Eagles in firm control with their goals, ensuring a commanding progression to the quarter-finals.
While it remains unclear how long Adams will be away from the squad, sources suggest he is expected to rejoin the team ahead of Nigeria’s next match, set for Saturday in Marrakech against either Algeria or DR Congo in the last eight. His absence for any stretch would be felt, given his growing influence in Eric Chelle’s attacking setup.
The Super Eagles remain focused on their AFCON campaign, but there is widespread support from fans and teammates alike for Adams and his family during this personal situation.
