Sevilla coach Matías Almeyda has revealed why Akor Adams came on as a substitute in the 37th minute of their 2-0 loss to Valencia on Saturday.

Sevilla endured a disappointing outing at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán, conceding twice in the first half to leave themselves with a difficult task after the break. 

Los Rojiblancos had kept their opponents at bay, only to concede just a minute after their Nigerian star entered the game as a substitute, replacing the experienced defender César Azpilicueta.

Explaining the decision to introduce Adams, the Sevilla coach pointed to an injury concern and the need to strengthen his attacking options.

"César felt discomfort in his adductor. Watching from the sidelines, I thought that by bringing on Akor we would have an attacking option, and I was already making one of the substitutions I had to make. Then we tried to improve it, but we couldn't," Matías Almeyda told the club's official website.

Despite Adams introduction, the hosts were unable to break down a well-organised Valencia side, who maintained control to secure all three points.

The Super Eagles striker provided Sevilla with an additional attacking presence, but clear opportunities remained limited as Valencia held firm defensively to see out the result.

Following the match, Adams will now shift focus to international duty. 

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations star has been named in the 23-man squad and will now link up with the Nigeria national football team in Antalya, Turkey, for upcoming friendly matches against Iran and Jordan later this month.

Wale Adejumo