Sevilla manager Matias Almeyda had praised the dedication and impact of Nigerian duo Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke after Monday night’s 2-2 draw against Elche, SportPremi reports.
The Super Eagles internationals returned to action for the Spanish club only two days after playing in the bronze medal match at the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament.
Adams had a goal ruled out in that encounter, but scored his spot-kick in the penalty shootout, while Ejuke came on as a late substitute as Nigeria clinched bronze medal after an impressive tournament.
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The former was one of the Super Eagles’ standout players in Morocco, scoring two times at the tournament. He netted his maiden goal against Mozambique in the first knockout stage and bagged his second in the 2-0 win over Algeria in the quarterfinals.
Adams’ heroics seals valuable point for Sevilla in return to action
Sevilla went into the clash without a win since December, which was also the last time Adams and Ejuke played before going to the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament.
Both players started on the bench against Elche, who went ahead after just 14 minutes through Aleix Febas.
Adams came on at halftime, but it was the home side who struck another killer blow with a second 10 minutes after the restart through German Valera.
Then the Nigerian striker took center stage, scoring his first goal in fortuitous circumstance in the 75th minute as a low effort hit the post before rebounding off his boot into the net.
The 25-year-old then scored a stoppage-time penalty to seal a valuable point for his side on his return to La Liga action.
Almeyda hails Nigerian duo
Speaking after the match, Matias Almeyda hailed both players for their swift return to action at the club.
“I appreciate the commitment of Akor and Ejuke, who were here without seeing their families”, Almeyda stated.
“The lads who are coming back from the cup are a real boost for us. I have to thank them for their commitment; they didn’t see their families and came here. I place tremendous importance on them giving up their vacations to be here helping each other.”
Sevilla are now 14th on the standings after 20 matches and will now face Athletic Bilbao in their next outing on Saturday, hoping to end their winless run.
