Former South Africa midfielder Teko Modise has advised Super Eagles forward Akor Adams to become more clinical in front of goal if he is to secure regular playing time at Spanish La Liga side Sevilla.

Teko made the remarks while analysing Adams’ performance in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Algeria on Saturday, during which the Sevilla striker got on the scoresheet despite missing several clear-cut chances. 

Speaking during his post-match analysis on SuperSport, the former Bafana Bafana star questioned Adams’ efficiency, stressing that improved finishing is crucial at the highest level.

“I think it is important because we were off the screen complaining yesterday,” he lamented. “How many chances does he need?”  

He acknowledged Adams’ impressive work rate and intelligent movement but insisted that those qualities must be matched with ruthless finishing to thrive at club level in Spain.

“But also Adams as well, finding yourself in the right spaces, he works so hard, he gets the right opportunities,” Teko added.

“But then what maybe he might improve his performance from a club level perspective is being able to utilize the opportunities that he gets.”

Teko also praised Victor Osimhen for his unselfish play in the build-up to Adams’ goal, highlighting the Galatasaray striker’s decision-making despite his desire to top the scoring charts. He equally commended Alex Iwobi for his vision in creating the chance.

“Look at this man {Osimhen}, he is unselfish, as much as he is a striker that wants to be the top scorer of the tournament but realizing the ball is on his left foot, let me turn around and look for the most open man,” he said. 

“But also the pass as well again from Iwobi, getting Osimhen in that right direction.”

While acknowledging Adams’ missed chances, Teko noted that the goal against Algeria could ease the pressure on the striker.

“But yet again this goal is a great goal and it will take the mic off his back because of all the opportunities that he has missed,” he said.  

Despite missing several chances for Nigeria against Algeria, Adams has been excellent for the Super Eagles at AFCON, scoring two goals and providing two assists in five matches. 

Adeyemi Adewale