Akor Adams Proves Nigeria Can Thrive Without Osimhen vs Iran

Victor Osimhen is sidelined with a fractured forearm, but Nigeria showed on March 27 they have the firepower to cope. Akor Adams, the Stuttgart striker, scored the decisive second goal in a 2-1 friendly win over Iran in Antalya — converting a Lookman through-ball in the 51st minute with the kind of composure that Chelle demands from his replacements.

Moses Simon’s 6th-minute opener, Samuel Chukwueze’s assist and Lookman’s creativity all underlined Nigeria’s width and balance. Beyond one man, this team has quality across the board.

“Akor was outstanding. He knows how to find space and finish,” Chelle told reporters, per Soccernet Nigeria. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye drew some scrutiny after Taremi scored Iran’s late consolation, but it did not cost Nigeria the result. With Ola Aina also still unavailable, the win showed the Super Eagles can adapt. Jordan awaits on March 31.