Pundit praises Simon Adingra for his performance against Nigerian defender Ola Aina

• Simon Adringa is one of the revelations of the just-concluded 2023 Africa Cup of Nations
• The Ivorian star provided two assists in the final as Ivory Coast beat Nigeria to lift the title
• Adingra's brilliance leading to the second goal has earned the plaudits of a famous pundit

Famous pundit, Jonathan Wilson, has applauded Simon Adingra for his sensational performance in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

The 22-year-old played a pivotal role as the Elephants of Cote d'Ivoire came from behind to defeat Nigeria 2-1 to win the prestigious title.

Stand-in captain William Troost-Ekong had headed Nigeria ahead in the first half, but the hosts fired from all cylinders in the second half to score two goals.

And it was Adingra who provided both assists; first, his effort off a set-piece was headed home by Franck Kessie who restored parity in the 62nd minute.

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In the 81st minute, the Brighton & Hove's winger beat Ola Aina to cross the ball which was flicked home by Sebastian Haller.

That move on the right wing stunned Whoscored pundit Wilson, who has lauded the intelligence of the young talent.

Speaking on Whoscored's Edge of the Box, Wilson said as per All Nigeria Soccer:

"Adingra's pace and directness, the first assist in the final was a corner, his deliveries from corners were good as soon as they started letting him take them which happened midway through the semifinal and the delivery improved.

"That little burst of pace to beat Ola Aina and then put in a cross for Haller to get the winner. He'd been doing that sort of thing all game so he's a great talent.

"He's got great pace, he's a good deliver of the ball and he can finish."

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Adingra gets heroic welcome at Brighton

Sports Brief earlier reported that Brighton players and staff gave the youngster a guard of honour at the Amex Stadium to celebrate his successful AFCON campaign.

Amidst the fireworks, the players and staff cheered the winger as he emerged from the tunnel carrying the Ivorian flag.

Ivory Coast fans will remember the youngster's name for years to come for his contribution to their third continental crown.