AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Eric Chelle challenges Akor Adams to be more clinical after missing chances in Nigeria’s win over Tanzania

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has challenged Akor Adams to improve his finishing after admitting the striker could have scored two or three goals in Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania.

Despite being pleased with the forward’s overall contribution, Chelle believes Adams should have made more of the opportunities that came his way during the encounter in Uyo.

The Venezia striker partnered Ademola Lookman in attack as Nigeria secured an important victory over the Taifa Stars. However, his inability to convert several scoring opportunities left the coach demanding greater efficiency in front of goal.

Adams eventually made way for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in the second half, having worked tirelessly to trouble Tanzania’s defence.

Assessing his performance after the match, Chelle acknowledged the striker’s commitment but insisted that his finishing must improve if he is to become more effective for the national team.

“Adams, he gave everything but he had the chance to score maybe two or three goals today,” Chelle said during his post-match press conference.

“He ran a lot and gave everything for the group but at the end he has to be better to score some goals.”

Chelle explains why Adams earned his praise

Although the missed chances frustrated the Nigerian coach, Chelle was keen to emphasise that Adams’ influence extended beyond his responsibilities as a striker.

The Super Eagles manager highlighted his pressing, work rate and ability to help the team recover possession, describing those qualities as important to Nigeria’s attacking approach.

Chelle particularly referenced the build-up to Nigeria’s opening goal, explaining how Adams’ pressing helped the Super Eagles regain possession before the ball reached Lookman and eventually Alhassan Yusuf, who found the net.

According to the coach, the striker’s contribution in that sequence demonstrated why his overall performance deserved recognition despite his shortcomings in front of goal.

“I am happy about his performance because he worked for the team,” he added.

“The high pressure you see, he gets the ball back in a few minutes, passes to Ade and Ade passes to Alhassan Yusuf to score. So, if he is not there we don’t have the ball. So, I am happy,” he concluded.

Adams faces opportunity to make amends

Chelle’s assessment presents a balance between recognising Adams’ contribution to the team’s collective performance and demanding greater efficiency from the forward.

His ability to press defenders, hold up play and create opportunities for teammates remains valuable to Nigeria’s attacking structure.

However, converting scoring chances will be crucial as the Super Eagles pursue their qualification ambitions.

Adams will now have an opportunity to respond to his coach’s challenge when Nigeria face Tanzania again in the return fixture.

The former Montpellier forward will be eager to translate his hard work into goals and strengthen his position in Chelle’s attacking plans.