Nigeria forward Akor Adams in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa says the Super Eagles squad is full of positive energy ahead of Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar in Uyo.
The three-time African champions return to competitive action at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium known as the ‘Nest of Champions’ looking to kick off their qualifying campaign on a high note.
Nigeria enter the qualifiers having secured a third-place finish and a bronze medal at the last AFCON in Morocco, though that achievement was tempered by the lingering disappointment of missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Venezia striker Adams insisted the group is tightly focused and determined to silence the critics.
“It’s positive, as always. It’s good energy. 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.”
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‘Enough with the negativity’
Addressing supporters who remain frustrated following recent international setbacks, including missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 26-year-old urged Nigerian football fans to remain steadfast behind the team as they target maximum points from their opening fixtures.
“As always, be optimistic. Enough with the negativity all around,” Adams told Footy-Africa. “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.”
When asked about his personal goals for the international window, Adams kept his objective straightforward:
“Score goals, help the team to win, and give some good support to my teammates as well.”
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Focusing on the job in Uyo
Madagascar’s delegation landed in Akwa Ibom earlier this week ahead of Friday’s Group L match. While technical preparations and video analysis of Barea were scheduled for the eve of the game, Adams emphasised that Nigeria’s primary focus remains on executing their own strategy.
“As always, we focus a lot on ourselves and try to play our game,” he added.
For Adams, the definition of a successful camp is non-negotiable:
“Three points all the way. We have two games, now six points — that’s a successful camp.”
