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Nigeria continue their strong run at the AFCON 2025, but football sometimes takes a back seat. At a key moment of the competition, the Super Eagles were hit by unexpected news: one of their most in-form attackers had to step away from the squad just as his influence was beginning to grow.

In a tournament where momentum, focus and emotional balance are everything, any off-field disruption is felt deeply. Even more so when it involves a player who was delivering on the pitch and earning his place among Nigeria’s most trusted attacking options.

A Personal Situation That Changes The Picture

The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed on Tuesday that Akor Adams has temporarily left the national team camp. The reason is personal: his mother was hospitalized, and the striker was granted permission to travel and be with her.

The decision was made with full support from the coaching staff. Nigeria made it clear that Adams’ absence is temporary, with the expectation that he will rejoin the squad once the situation allows. For now, the priority goes beyond football.

Performances That Made Him Stand Out

What makes this absence particularly notable is the form Akor Adams was showing at the AFCON. The forward has already recorded 1 goal and 2 assists, numbers that underline his growing importance within the Nigerian setup.

His standout performance came in the emphatic 4–0 win over Mozambique, where he found the net with a powerful strike and played a key role in Nigeria’s attacking flow. The Super Eagles currently boast the most productive attack of the tournament, and Adams has been a central part of that success.

Matching Nigeria’s Biggest Stars

In a squad filled with elite talent, breaking through is never easy. Yet Akor Adams has managed to perform at the level of established stars like Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.

Beyond goals and assists, his movement, physical presence and ability to combine with teammates have given Nigeria more attacking variety. His rise has added another layer to a frontline that already strikes fear across the continent.

Nigeria Await His Return For The Knockout Stage

Nigeria now turn their attention to the quarterfinal clash against Angola, scheduled for Saturday the 10th at 17:00. While preparations continue, the squad remains hopeful that Akor Adams will be able to return in time for the decisive stages.

As the AFCON enters its most demanding phase, Nigeria know that regaining a player in rhythm and full confidence could make all the difference. And based on what he had shown so far, Adams was ready to play a major role.

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