'Nothing hurts more' - Super Eagles striker Akor Adams shares pain of missing out on World Cup

Akor Adams has expressed deep sorrow following Nigeria's heartbreaking elimination from the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers, admitting that missing the chance to lift the nation during difficult times was painful beyond words.

The Super Eagles were denied a place at the World Cup after a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African playoff final on Sunday night in Rabat.

The match, played under intense pressure, ended level after extra time, forcing a penalty shootout.

Adams, who replaced the injured Victor Osimhen at halftime, was one of the three Nigerian players who converted their penalties, alongside Chidera Ejuke and Bruno Onyemaechi.

The Leopards held their nerve to clinch the World Cup ticket after misses from Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon and Semi Ajayi.

The match had started brightly for the Super Eagles, with Frank Onyeka opening the scoring in the third minute with a deflected effort

However, DR Congo struck back in the 32nd minute through Meschack Elia, who capitalised on a swift counter-attack following an Alex Iwobi turnover in midfield.

With both sides unable to find a winner over 120 tense minutes, penalties became the decider, one that ended in bitter disappointment for Adams and his Super Eagles teammates.

Adams shared his emotions publicly, posting on social media: "As a Nigerian, nothing hurts more than missing out on what could bring the most joy to my people amidst all happening in our dear country". 

Every match in which Adams has found the net has ended in victory for the Super Eagles, notably against Lesotho and Gabon during the World Cup qualifiers.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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