Super Eagles striker Akor Adams has set an uncompromising target for Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, declaring that six points from the matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau would represent a successful international window.
Nigeria begin their Group L campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday before travelling to Bissau for their second qualifier on September 29.
Adams believes Eric Chelle’s squad could hardly be arriving at the qualifiers in better physical condition, with several players enjoying encouraging starts to their club seasons.
“It’s positive, as always. It’s good energy,” Adams said. “Everybody’s coming from a good pre-season. Almost all the players here started the season very well, we’re fit, and we’re ready.”
The striker is equally clear about what he wants to contribute personally.
“Score goals, help the team to win, and give some good support to my teammates as well,” he said.
With Victor Osimhen unavailable through injury, Adams is among the forwards competing for a prominent role in Chelle’s attack alongside Taiwo Awoniyi, Tolu Arokodare and newcomer George Ilenikhena.
But individual ambitions are secondary to the collective objective.
“Three points all the way. We have two games, now six points — that’s a successful camp,” Adams declared.
The 26-year-old also delivered a direct message to supporters following the disappointment of Nigeria missing the 2026 World Cup.
“As always, be optimistic. Enough with the negativity all around,” he said. “Football is a game of three sides: we win, we lose, or we draw. But we look to win, so just come out and support us as always.”
For Adams and the Super Eagles, that attempt to turn optimism into results begins against Madagascar with three points in Uyo the first half of their six-point target.
