Soccer
AFCON Stade Moulay Abdellah Rabat Morocco Achraf Hakimi, 2 Nayef Aguerd, 5 Akor Adams Nigeria, 22 Copyright: ImagoxOumaimaxSouaidix
Super Eagles striker Akor Adams reacted frostily to the media following Nigeria’s penalty shootout loss to Morocco on Wednesday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Adams featured for 98 minutes in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah in Rabat but struggled to make an impact.
He remained largely peripheral throughout the contest, as the Moroccan defence successfully neutralized his threat.
Asides from his performance, the officiating sparked significant controversy. Referee Daniel Laryea made several questionable calls that visibly frustrated the Nigerian squad, even the coach.
Key players, including Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Adams, were seen remonstrating with the officials as decisions went against them.
The match was ultimately decided by a shootout. While the Atlas Lions converted four of their spot-kicks, Nigeria managed only two.
When approached in the mixed zone after the match, a visibly upset Adams declined to comment on the performance, instead snapping at reporters: “Go and interview the referee.”
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Soccer Was The Referee The Reason Morocco Beat Nigeria’s Super Eagles?
Referee Laryea did not have a great game on the night, as he got a few calls wrong. But ultimately, he was not the reason the Super Eagles lost to Morocco.
The possession stats give the impression that both teams were at par. But Morocco edged it slightly in the course of 90 minutes.
The Atlast Lions had 16 goal attempts to Nigeria’s 2. They also had five shots on target, while the Super Eagles had just one. In the course of the game, Morocco had the better chances to score, but Stanley Nwabali did well.
Then, in the penalty shootout, the players let themselves down. Samuel Chukwueze’s attempt was terrible, while Bruno Onyemaechi was unlucky that his kick was saved.
Nonetheless, moving forward, CAF have to improve on the quality of referees they appoint for these kind of high stakes games.
Kelvin Omachonu
Kelvin Omachonu is a professional football columnist and sports writer with over half a decade of experience covering major events and delivering captivating, analytically-driven stories.
A graduate of the University of Ibadan, he is fueled by a profound dedication to sports journalism and the beautiful game. His insights have previously been featured in respected outlets, including IndyPress UI, UCJ UI Newshive NG, Sportpremi, and a few others.
Away from work, Kelvin is an avid fan of basketball, enjoys a great movie, and is always discovering new music.
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