Akor Adams backs Super Eagles newcomers as Nigeria begin AFCON qualification push

Super Eagles striker Akor Adams has welcomed the arrival of new players into Nigeria’s senior national team, insisting that anyone performing at a high level deserves the opportunity to represent the country.

Manager Eric Chelle has introduced three new faces to the squad for Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

Alverca left-back Isaac James, LASK forward Moses Usor and in-form Al-Ittihad striker George Ilenikhena have all received their maiden senior invitations as Chelle continues to shape his squad.

Adams, who featured for the Super Eagles in high-profile friendly matches against Poland and Portugal in June, said he was pleased to return to the national team setup and reconnect with his teammates.

“It feels good. It is also a privilege to be back with the group, and we are happy to be back,” Adams told Pooja Media.

Adams welcomes competition for places

The Venezia summer signing believes the inclusion of players who are performing consistently for their clubs can only strengthen the Super Eagles.

He said the national team should remain open to players who earn their opportunity through their performances, regardless of whether they are established members of the squad.

“Really good. It’s also good to see new players who are doing well and get the chance to be in the team. Whatever makes us better, that’s the goal,” he said.

“The coach makes it very clear that any player that comes here deserves it and we are happy to welcome them as well.”

The additions come as Nigeria begin their latest push for a place at the 2027 AFCON, with Chelle demanding that his players approach the qualification campaign with the ambition of eventually competing for the continental title.

Qualification first step to African glory

Nigeria will host Madagascar in Uyo on Friday, September 25, before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.

Adams views the two matches as an important early test of Nigeria’s ambitions under Chelle, stressing that qualification must come before any thoughts of lifting the trophy.

“It’s very important because it sets a mark for what we want to do. If you want to be the best in Africa, it starts from the qualification, like the coach has clearly said, and that’s what we want to achieve as well,” Adams explained.

The striker was one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where he recorded four goal involvements in seven appearances for the three-time African champions.

With another major tournament campaign now beginning, Adams has called on supporters to back the team as Nigeria seek a strong start to their qualification journey.

“Be optimistic. Come out in good support and in good faith to the team because we know you guys support us, and we’ll try to give our best on the pitch.”