The hidden reason behind Akor Adams’ iconic Super Eagles goal celebration vs Algeria

Sevilla striker Akor Adams was on target as the Super Eagles secured a 2-0 victory over Algeria in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reports.

​It was a completely dominant performance from the three-time African champions. Nigeria outplayed the Fennec Foxes in what proved to be the most one-sided fixtures of the round.

In fact, the scoreline could have been far worse for the North Africans had the Super Eagles converted more of their chances.

​Akor Adams was the primary culprit in front of goal. He could have easily walked away with a hat-trick but ended the night with just one.

In the first half, the Sevilla star fired over the bar when he had a one-on-one situation with the Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane.

Then, early in the second half, he missed another golden opportunity, sending a header against the upright with the goal gaping.

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​However, his persistence eventually paid off. After receiving a selfless layup from Victor Osimhen, Adams rounded the goalkeeper and easily tucked the ball into the net.

​The Story Behind Akor Adams' Celebration

​After his goal, Akor Adams broke away from his usual goal celebration routine. Usually, he celebrates by heading to the corner flag, standing tall, raising one hand, and covering his face with the other. This time, he simply ran to the byline and raised a single hand in a static pose.

​Adams' celebration was a tribute to Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, a DR Congo fan who has become a viral sensation at AFCON 2025.

 

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Mboladinga gained fame for imitating the statue of Patrice Lumumba, the first president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

He is known for standing perfectly still with his hand raised for the entire 90 minutes of DR Congo’s matches — a real feat of endurance that even earned him a meeting with CAF President Patrice Motsepe.

A moment with a true icon of the stands.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe and Lumumba. #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/IaDGLdVRyO

— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) January 6, 2026

Just a few days ago, Mboladinga was also invited to the Algerian camp after striker Mohamed Amoura was seen mocking him following Algeria's round-of-16 win over DR Congo. Although Mboladinga was not in the stadium on Saturday, Adams’ tribute was a classy show of solidarity.

​Up next for the Super Eagles is a high-stakes semifinal against Morocco on Wednesday. Adams will be looking to maintain his scoring form as Nigeria chases a fourth AFCON title.