Sevilla's Adams dilemma as Nigeria march on in AFCON
Akor Adams' Nigeria success at AFCON creates headaches for Sevilla, who now face extended absence of their in-form striker as they search for reinforcements.
Sevilla’s rising Nigerian star continues to make waves on the international stage, potentially leaving the Andalusian club in a proper pickle as the business end of the season approaches.
Nigeria marching on
Nigeria became the second nation after Egypt to book their spot in the AFCON Round of 16 yesterday, securing maximum points from their group matches against Tanzania and Tunisia. Their path through the knockout stages is now set, with their next fixture scheduled for Monday, January 5th at 8pm in Fez against a third-place finisher from Group A, B or F.
This tournament progression means Sevilla will definitely be without Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke for their upcoming clash with Levante at the Sánchez-Pizjuán on January 4th. But that could be just the tip of the iceberg:
- Quarter-finals: January 9-10
- Semi-finals: January 14
- Final: January 18
If Nigeria go all the way, Sevilla could be without their Nigerian stars for nearly three weeks of crucial fixtures.
Adams becoming indispensable
Adams earned another start against Tunisia yesterday, partnering Victor Osimhen up front before being replaced by fellow Sevilla man Ejuke in the 79th minute. The striker has become absolutely essential for Nigeria boss Eric Chelle since his move to Sevilla put him on the international radar.
After finding the onion bag against both Rayo and Barcelona earlier this season, Adams received his first international call-up, making his debut against Lesotho on October 10th. The forward hasn’t looked back since, coming off the bench to score on his debut and featuring in five of Nigeria’s six matches since his first cap.
Sevilla’s striking dilemma
Adams departed for AFCON in December in spectacular form, leaving Sevilla with his best performance yet - notching a goal and two assists against Oviedo, while Ejuke also got on the scoresheet with a pearler of his own.
The club brass at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán are understandably concerned about missing their in-form number 9 when domestic action resumes. While Adams steals the limelight in Morocco, Sevilla’s recruitment team are reportedly scouring the market for striking reinforcements to cover his potential extended absence.