Sevilla Coach Almeyda Defends Akor Adams Substitution in Girona Draw

Sevilla head coach Matías Almeyda has defended his decision to substitute Nigerian striker Akor Adams during the club’s 1–1 draw against Girona at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium on Sunday.

Adams was withdrawn in the 74th minute with Sevilla trailing 1–0, making way for former Arsenal forward Alexis Sánchez.

The move drew immediate criticism from sections of the home support, who questioned the decision to remove the in-form Super Eagles attacker.

However, Almeyda’s tactical switch ultimately paid off, as defender Kike Salas struck late to earn Sevilla a valuable point.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Almeyda explained the reasoning behind the change, stressing that Sánchez was brought in to influence decisive moments.

‘(Chilean) Alexis had to play that decisive part of the game, because that’s what he came for,’ Almeyda said, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

The coach also dismissed suggestions that Adams’ removal weakened Sevilla’s attack, pointing instead to broader issues in the team’s final delivery.

‘With or without a reference point, they haven’t scored a header because, in addition, the crosses aren’t the best,’ he added.

Adams has been in fine form since returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring three goals in four La Liga matches.

Despite the substitution, Almeyda emphasized that Sevilla’s attacking struggles cannot be pinned on a single player.