Akor Adams: “We Are the Best Team” Despite AFCON Bronze
Super Eagles forward Akor Adams has insisted that Nigeria were the strongest team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, even though they finished third after defeating Egypt in the bronze-medal match.
Nigeria claimed third place by winning a penalty shoot-out against the Pharaohs, securing their ninth AFCON bronze medal, the highest number in the tournament’s history.
Speaking after the game, Adams admitted the team fell short of their ultimate goal but said they could take pride in their overall performance.
“We are the best team. We came for the gold and we did not take it, but we are proud of what we have been able to achieve,” the 25-year-old said.
“We have a very strong team. Everybody is going home with a better friendship with the next person.”
The forward, making his AFCON debut, also praised head coach Eric Chelle for his impact during the competition.
“We are all grateful to Eric Chelle for what he has done for us as a group in the last three weeks, we are better people because of him.
He has given me the opportunity to represent my beloved Nigeria.”
Adams’ tournament was marked by personal challenges off the pitch. Ahead of Nigeria’s last-16 game against Mozambique, his mother was hospitalised. Despite this, he scored his first ever AFCON goal in the match, dedicating it to her.
Providing an update on her condition, Adams revealed she has since recovered.
“Like every other tournament, things will happen in between, family issues are not separate from that.
I’m grateful it wasn’t anything too big or out of control. I’m grateful also to the CAF medicals because they took care of her. She’s much better now and I’m glad we got to experience this together.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s bronze-medal finish, Adams admitted he had mixed emotions but remained positive about his first tournament.
“I’m not very happy, but the most important thing is that we came out with the win,” he said.
“Everything for me is positive. It’s my first, there’s nothing to compare it to.”
