Super Eagles forward Akor Adams has received major continental acclaim as CAF officially named his strike against Algeria among the top five goals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Confederation of African Football released the prestigious shortlist on the TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 social media handles this Thursday, highlighting the most iconic moments from the tournament in Morocco.
Adams’ featured goal occurred during a high-stakes quarter-final victory over the Desert Warriors, where his technical finesse and clinical finishing helped Nigeria secure a decisive 2-0 win.
The striker’s contribution proved vital in navigating the knockout stages, eventually leading the Super Eagles to a bronze-medal finish in the competition. CAF’s expert panel selected the goal not only for its aesthetic quality but also for its strategic impact on Nigeria’s tournament trajectory. This recognition places Adams alongside the continent’s most exciting talents and signals his emergence as a key figure in the future of the Nigerian national team.
The governing body’s final list celebrates a diverse range of spectacular finishes that defined the 2025 edition:
Ayoub El Kaabi (Morocco) The Moroccan forward captivated home supporters with a masterful bicycle kick against Comoros. After entering the pitch as a second-half substitute, El Kaabi connected with a floating cross to execute a perfectly timed overhead strike that looped over the defense and into the net.
Christian Kofane (Cameroon) The teenage sensation announced his arrival on the international stage with a thunderous 30-yard screamer against Mozambique. The ferocious effort left the opposition goalkeeper stationary and provided the Indomitable Lions with the momentum needed to advance through the group phase.
Adil Boulbina (Algeria) Boulbina became a national hero during a grueling Round of 16 clash with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Deep into extra time, the Algerian attacker combined elite dribbling with a precise curling finish to break the deadlock and secure a 1-0 win for his side.
Pape Gueye (Senegal) The Senegalese midfielder delivered the tournament’s most significant goal during the final against host nation Morocco. In the fourth minute of extra time, Gueye unleashed a powerful left-footed drive into the top corner, securing a 1-0 victory and crowning Senegal as African champions for the second time.
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