Simon Adingra, a graduate of the Right to Dream Academy, has been awarded the Best Young Player of the Tournament at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. His outstanding performances throughout the tournament earned him this honor.
As a forward for Brighton, Adingra played a crucial role for the Ivorian team during the knockout stage, delivering two crucial assists in the final match.
During the tournament, Adingra scored one goal and provided two assists, all of which came in the final, showcasing his talent and impact on the team.
In the final match, Nigeria took the lead with a goal from Ekong before Franck Kessie equalized for the Ivory Coast in the 62nd minute, thanks to an assist from Adingra. Adingra once again played a key role in setting up the winning goal for Sebastian Haller.
Following a remarkable journey to the final, the Ivorian team, despite the departure of coach Jean-Louis Gasset after two defeats in the group stage, secured their third continental title with a well-deserved victory.
This victory adds to the previous Nations Cup wins for the West African team in 1992 and 2015, making them the first tournament hosts to triumph since Egypt’s victory in 2006.
