Sevilla's African stars continue AFCON journey, delaying Almeyda reunion
Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke will remain with Nigeria at AFCON until at least January 17, ruling them out of Sevilla's next La Liga fixture against Elche.
Sevilla boss Matías Almeyda will have to wait a bit longer for his Nigerian duo to return from international duty, with both players now guaranteed to remain at AFCON until at least January 17.
Nigeria march on with Akor shining
Nigeria have booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals after dispatching Algeria 2-0 in today’s quarter-final clash. While Napoli’s Victor Osimhen nodded home the opener just after half-time, it was Sevilla’s own Akor Adams who sealed the deal with Nigeria’s second.
The Sevilla striker continues to have a blinder of a tournament:
- 2 goals and 2 assists so far
- Started 4 of Nigeria’s 5 matches
- Becoming a key figure for the Super Eagles
Meanwhile, his Sevilla teammate Chidera Ejuke has been left twiddling his thumbs on the bench. The winger has barely had a sniff, managing just 12 minutes against Tunisia in the group stage and remaining an unused sub once again versus Algeria.
Extended AFCON absence
Nigeria’s progress means both Sevilla players will be unavailable for selection until after the tournament concludes, regardless of whether they reach the final or play in the third-place playoff:
- Semi-final vs Morocco: January 14 (21:00)
- Potential final: January 18
- Third-place playoff: January 17
This extended international commitment has properly thrown a spanner in the works for Sevilla’s upcoming fixtures. Almeyda will definitely be without the Nigerian pair for the club’s next La Liga outing against Elche on Monday, January 19.
Return date on the horizon
The earliest we can expect to see Adams and Ejuke back in the famous white and red will be for Sevilla’s home clash against Athletic Club on Saturday, January 24 (18:30).
For Almeyda, the return can’t come soon enough – especially given Adams’ current form. The striker’s contributions at AFCON suggest he could provide a serious boost to Sevilla’s attacking options when he finally returns to Andalusia.