Super Eagles striker Akor Adams has called on Nigeria to quickly move on from their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture. The loss came after a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in their opening qualifying match. Adams admitted that the team failed to produce their best performance against Guinea-Bissau but emphasized that the players have accepted responsibility for the setback.
The forward revealed that the squad has already begun addressing the shortcomings from the defeat, insisting that Nigeria simply fell below their usual level as a collective. Adams stressed that the team must focus on meeting the high standards associated with representing Nigeria rather than allowing the defeat to linger. He emphasized that the standards set by the team are high, and it's what they strive to live up to every day.
Adams also raised concerns about the condition of the pitch in Bissau but was careful not to present it as an excuse for the heavy defeat. He stressed that a good pitch should be the bare minimum for African football and called for better playing surfaces across the continent. The former Sevilla striker maintained that international football demands adaptability, with players expected to overcome difficult conditions.
The Super Eagles will now face Russia in an international friendly at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on October 6. Adams welcomed the new additions to the squad and stressed that the team must maintain their identity despite the changes for the friendly. He acknowledged Russia's quality and their desire to play international fixtures but insisted that Nigeria's priority remains delivering a performance that will satisfy their supporters.
Adams disclosed the mood in the dressing room following the loss, revealing that captain Wilfred Ndidi was particularly unhappy with the team's performance. Ndidi has since withdrawn from the Russia friendly, with John Otomewo and Vince Osuji drafted into the squad as replacements. Adams revealed that many of the players were devastated after coming away from a long trip without taking anything back home in an important qualification game.
Despite the setback, Adams stressed that Nigeria remains determined to control their own fate in the qualification race rather than rely on results involving other teams. He insisted that the team will make sure to come out strong in their remaining games. The friendly against Russia offers Nigeria an immediate opportunity to respond and make amends for the Guinea-Bissau defeat.
Adams concluded by emphasizing the importance of giving their best performance against Russia, knowing that Nigerians are watching and eager to see their team succeed. The team's coach has made it clear that they are there to try their best to win, and Adams is confident that the team can deliver a satisfying performance. The Super Eagles are looking to bounce back from the Guinea-Bissau defeat and prove themselves against Russia.
Key points
- Nigeria's Super Eagles must quickly move on from their 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau and restore standards when they face Russia in an international friendly.
- The team's players have accepted responsibility for the setback and are working to address shortcomings.
- The friendly against Russia offers Nigeria an opportunity to respond and make amends for the Guinea-Bissau defeat.
