Stroppa tells Akor Adams to improve after 2-1 Coppa Italia loss

Venezia coach Giovanni Stroppa says Akor Adams must improve technically and tactically after the club’s 2-1 defeat by Udinese in the Coppa Italia Round of 32. The result was Venezia’s third consecutive loss in all competitions.

Adams came on in the 82nd minute for Lion Lauberbach but could not alter the outcome at the Bluenergy Stadium. The Nigeria international is still waiting for his first goal since scoring twice and supplying an assist in Venezia’s 3-2 comeback against Modena in the previous round.

Stroppa pointed to several positive qualities in the 26-year-old centre-forward, including his willingness to lead the initial press, move into deeper areas and attack the goal. The coach also believes Adams has further work to do with his technique and tactical understanding.

The defeat extended a difficult start for the newly promoted Serie A side. Venezia opened their league campaign with a 2-0 home loss to Lecce before falling by the same score against AC Milan. Their only victory of the season remains the Coppa Italia success over Modena.

Venezia took the lead against Udinese through Richie Sagrado in the ninth minute, but Vakoun Issouf Bayo levelled for the hosts before scoring again shortly after half-time. Udinese advanced to the Round of 16, where Atalanta will be their next opponent.

Stroppa said Venezia’s performances have contained encouraging elements but stressed that the team must be more alert and convert its chances into points. He also praised Rrahmani and Lauberbach for creating opportunities before Adams replaced the German forward.

Adams will have another chance to open his Serie A account when Venezia visit Frosinone on Sunday. The striker is also seeking regular form before Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 qualifying matches later this month.