Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has defended striker Akor Adams despite his failure to convert several scoring opportunities in Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Adams started Friday’s encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo alongside Ademola Lookman but was substituted in the second half.
The striker had opportunities to increase Nigeria’s goal tally but failed to find the back of the net.
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Speaking after the match, Chelle acknowledged Adams’ shortcomings in front of goal but praised his work rate and contribution to the team’s attacking play.
“Adams, he gave everything, but he had the chance to score maybe two or three goals today,” the coach said.
“He ran a lot and gave everything for the group, but in the end he has to be better at scoring goals.”
Chelle also highlighted Adams’ role in Nigeria’s opening goal, explaining that his pressing helped the team recover possession before Alhassan Yusuf scored in the second minute.
“I am happy with his performance because he worked for the team,” he added.
“You saw the high press: he gets the ball back, 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.”
Nigeria went into the break level at 1-1 after Tanzania equalised through Alphonce Msanga in the 32nd minute.
However, substitute Tolu Arokodare scored twice in the second half to secure all three points for the Super Eagles.
The victory moved Nigeria to second place in Group L with six points from three matches, one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau.
The Super Eagles will face Tanzania again in the return fixture in Zanzibar on November 17.
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