Sevilla FC have prevented Nigerian striker Akor Adams from making his debut for the Super Eagles in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Reports indicate that the La Liga club intervened, citing injury concerns as the reason for his omission from the final squad.
Adams, along with his Sevilla teammate Chidera Ejuke, was initially named in Nigeria’s provisional squad. However, both players were dropped from the final 23-man list announced by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Friday, as reported by All Nigeria Soccer.
The 24-year-old striker, a former Nigeria U-20 international, joined Sevilla in the January transfer window but has struggled with fitness issues since his arrival. His last appearance came on February 1, 2025, when he made his debut off the bench against Getafe. Since then, a hamstring injury has kept him sidelined.
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According to Estadio Deportivo, Sevilla directly intervened to block Adams’ call-up, citing his prolonged absence and the fact that his return to full training had been delayed. The club reportedly engaged in discussions with the NFF, leading to a mutual agreement that the player would not be released for international duty.
Adams, who was part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland, has shown promise in his career. Before joining Sevilla, he played 16 matches for Montpellier across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing one assist.
With Nigeria set to face Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium on March 21 before taking on Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25, Super Eagles fans will have to wait longer to see Adams don the national colors.
