Nigerian striker Akor Adams inspires Sevilla comeback after AFCON return

Akor Adams made an immediate impact on his return to club football as the Sevilla forward inspired a dramatic comeback to secure a draw away at Elche in La Liga.

Fresh from international duty at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he returned with a bronze medal, the Nigerian striker was introduced from the bench on Monday during Sevilla’s matchday 20 fixture.

With his side trailing 2-0, Adams was called upon to change the course of the game and responded with urgency and resolve.

From his first involvement, Adams brought intensity to Sevilla’s attack, pressing defenders and demanding the ball.

His influence quickly became clear as he led the fightback almost single-handedly, scoring twice in the second half to drag his team back into the contest.

The first goal reduced the deficit and injected belief into Sevilla’s performance, while the second completed a remarkable turnaround, ensuring the visitors left Elche with a 2-2 draw.

The brace not only salvaged a point but also underlined Adams’ growing importance within the squad.

The performance came just days after his return from the AFCON tournament, where he featured as part of Nigeria’s campaign that ended with a bronze medal.

Despite limited time to readjust to domestic competition, Adams showed no signs of fatigue, instead delivering a display marked by sharp movement and determination.

Sevilla, who had struggled to impose themselves earlier in the match, benefited from his direct approach and clinical finishing.

His contribution changed the rhythm of the game, shifting momentum away from the hosts and forcing Elche onto the defensive for long periods of the second half.

The draw was received as a morale boost for Sevilla, who had been facing a difficult evening before Adams’ introduction.

His ability to influence the match so decisively reinforced his role as a key attacking option as the season enters its decisive phase.

For Adams, the performance represented a triumphant return to Spanish football. Coming off the bench to rescue a result highlighted both his mental sharpness and his growing confidence at club level.

As Sevilla look ahead to the remainder of the campaign, his impact at Elche suggests he will play a central role in their ambitions during the second half of the season.