AFCON 2025
Akor Adams marked his competitive debut for Venezia with a stunning performance, scoring twice and providing an assist to inspire a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Modena in the Coppa Italia round of 64 on Saturday night.
The Super Eagles striker, who joined the Lagunari from Sevilla in a reported €16 million deal this summer, wasted no time announcing himself to his new supporters. Modena made the brighter start and took the lead through Giuseppe Ambrosino in the 17th minute, but Adams responded nine minutes later, finding the top corner with a composed finish to level things at 1-1.
Ambrosino struck again just before the break to complete his own brace and send Modena in front 2-1 at halftime, leaving Venezia facing an early Coppa Italia exit. But Adams was far from finished. The Nigerian turned provider in the 83rd minute, teeing up John Yeboah to restore parity and drag Venezia level at 2-2.
Three minutes later, Adams completed the turnaround himself, unleashing a powerful strike from outside the box that flew past the Modena goalkeeper to hand Venezia the lead for the first time in the contest. His second goal proved decisive, as Venezia held firm to seal a 3-2 win and progress to the round of 32.
Adams was directly involved in all three of Venezia’s goals on the night, finishing with a match-high six shots and nine touches inside the opposition penalty box, underlining the scale of his influence on his first competitive outing for the club.
Speaking after the match, Adams said his goals helped secure the win despite a difficult start, adding that he believes Venezia have the quality and ambition to enjoy a successful season following their promotion back to Serie A.
