Exciting Nigerian forward makes his debut for Brighton after record-breaking summer transfer

Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler handed playing time to 21 players as his side cruised to a 3-0 pre-season friendly victory over Italian club AS Roma at the American Express Stadium on Saturday.

From a Nigerian perspective, the major highlight was exciting forward Zadok Yohanna making his unofficial debut for the Seagulls following his celebrated move from AIK this summer. 

Brighton secured the talented teenager for an Allsvenskan-record €28 million, with the overall package potentially rising to €30 million if performance-related bonuses are met. 

The Premier League club beat several European suitors to his signature in what was regarded as a major coup.

With 30 minutes remaining, Yohanna entered the contest as a substitute for Diego Gomez and immediately showcased the qualities that made him such a highly sought-after prospect.

The Nigerian impressed with his explosive pace and relentless work rate, repeatedly taking on defenders, driving into space and maintaining his intensity throughout his time on the pitch.

Georginio Rutter opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a stunning 20-yard curler, before Yasin Ayari struck either side of half-time to complete the emphatic victory.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel