Super Eagles’ Shining Star: Akor Adams’ Screamer Lands in AFCON Top 5

Super Eagles forward Akor Adams has received continental acclaim after his stunning goal against Algeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was ranked among the Confederation of African Football’s top five goals of the tournament.

The list, released via the official TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 X platform, celebrates the most outstanding strikes of the competition. Adams’ effort earned its place following Nigeria’s quarter-final encounter with Algeria, where his calm finish, technical finesse and sharp decision-making sealed a 2–0 win for the Super Eagles.

The goal proved pivotal in Nigeria’s AFCON campaign, helping drive the team toward a third-place finish and reinforcing Adams’ growing reputation as a decisive presence in big matches.

CAF’s annual selection goes beyond aesthetics, spotlighting goals that shaped games and left a lasting imprint on the tournament. Adams’ inclusion reflects both the quality of his finish and his rising stature within African football.

Other Goals in CAF’s Top Five

Ayoub El Kaabi (Morocco)
El Kaabi delivered one of the tournament’s most jaw-dropping moments with a sensational bicycle kick shortly after coming on as a substitute. Timing his leap perfectly to meet a looping cross, he sent the ball sailing over defenders and beyond the goalkeeper, handing Morocco a spectacular highlight against Comoros.

Christian Kofane (Cameroon)
Cameroon’s teenage sensation announced himself in emphatic fashion with a thunderous strike from over 30 yards. The powerful effort left the Mozambique goalkeeper rooted to the spot and marked Kofane as one of AFCON 2025’s breakout stars.

Adil Boulbina (Algeria)
In a tense round-of-16 showdown with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Boulbina produced a moment of magic in extra time. His expertly placed shot secured a dramatic 1–0 victory and booked Algeria’s passage into the quarter-finals.

Pape Gueye (Senegal)
In a dramatic final against tournament hosts Morocco, Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye delivered the defining blow. Deep into extra time, he unleashed a fierce left-footed strike into the top corner, clinching a 1–0 win and sealing Senegal’s second AFCON crown.

This year’s top-five goals showcase the flair, athleticism and variety that defined AFCON 2025—from long-range rockets to acrobatic finishes and last-gasp winners. For Akor Adams, the recognition signals a major milestone, underlining his growing influence on the continental stage and pointing to a bright future for both player and country.