Akor Adams Heartbroken as Super Eagles Miss Out on 2026 World Cup Spot

Super Eagles forward Akor Adams has expressed deep sadness after Nigeria were knocked out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, saying it was painful to miss the chance to bring joy to Nigerians during difficult times.

Nigeria fell to the Democratic Republic of Congo 4–3 on penalties in the African playoff final on Sunday night in Rabat, ending the nation’s hopes of returning to the World Cup.

The tense match finished level after extra time, with both sides unable to produce a winner across 120 minutes, leaving penalties to decide the contest.

Adams, who came on at halftime to replace the injured Victor Osimhen, scored one of Nigeria’s three successful penalties. Chidera Ejuke and Bruno Onyemaechi also converted their spot-kicks.

However, DR Congo held their nerve, winning the shootout after misses from Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon and Semi Ajayi.

Nigeria had made a perfect start, taking the lead in the third minute through Frank Onyeka, whose shot took a deflection on its way into the net.

DR Congo responded in the 32nd minute as Meschack Elia finished off a quick counter-attack following an Alex Iwobi giveaway in midfield.

Speaking after the painful exit, Adams opened up on social media, writing:

“As a Nigerian, nothing hurts more than missing out on what could bring the most joy to my people amidst all happening in our dear country.”

Adams has been a reliable performer for the Super Eagles, with every match in which he has scored—against Lesotho and Gabon in the qualifiers—ending in victory.

The result brings a disappointing end to Nigeria’s World Cup journey, leaving Adams and his teammates to reflect on what might have been.