Super Eagles striker Akor Adams has opened up on an emotional moment behind Nigeria’s dominant 4–0 win over Mozambique in the second round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Montpellier forward revealed that his mother was hospitalised just hours before kickoff on Monday, adding a deeply personal layer to what turned out to be a memorable night for him and the team.
Adams, who put in an impressive performance, sealed Nigeria’s victory with a brilliant strike in the 75th minute — his first-ever goal at the AFCON and his third for the senior national team.
Speaking after the match, the 24-year-old dedicated the goal to his mother while expressing relief over her condition.
“The goal is for my mum. She was meant to be here, but she is currently in the hospital. She was admitted this morning, but thankfully she is much better now,” Adams said.
The striker also praised his teammates for their outstanding display, singling out Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman for their impact.
“I’m happy for the team. Victor had a fantastic game, Lookman was also fantastic. The most important thing is that we won, and everyone is happy,” he added.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s emphatic victory confirmed their place in the quarter-finals of the tournament, making them one of six teams to progress following the conclusion of Monday night’s Round of 16 fixtures.
Goals from Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams, alongside a brace from Victor Osimhen, ensured a comfortable passage for the Super Eagles in Fez. Nigeria remain the only team yet to lose a match at AFCON 2025, having won all four of their games so far.
In the other Round of 16 clash decided on Monday, Egypt booked their quarter-final spot after recording a 3–1 win over Benin Republic.