Ivory Coast takes on Gambia on Monday in a pivotal 2026 World Cup qualifier, with winger Simon Adingra facing a personal battle that extends beyond the team’s collective ambitions.
The match presents the 23-year-old an opportunity to prove himself, particularly against his Brighton teammate, Yankuba Minteh.
As the Elephants seek to reclaim the top spot in Group F from Gabon, Adingra will have the added motivation of facing Minteh, a player who has overshadowed him at club level.
Despite being one of Africa’s most exciting young talents, Adingra has struggled for consistent playing time at Brighton since joining last summer, while Minteh has been increasingly favored in the starting lineup.
A Battle Beyond National Pride
Ivory Coast currently sits second in Group F with 13 points, trailing Gabon by two. A victory over Gambia would not only boost their qualification hopes but also serve as a statement for Adingra, who has been limited to a backup role at Brighton.
Minteh, 20, has secured a regular spot on the right wing for the Seagulls, significantly limiting Adingra’s involvement.
The Ivorian has played just 23 minutes across Brighton’s last five Premier League matches, while Minteh continues to flourish.
This disparity has left Adingra eager to showcase his ability on the international stage.
Monday’s fixture at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny presents an ideal stage for him to make a strong impression.
A standout performance against Gambia could serve as a reminder of his quality, potentially challenging Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler’s selections moving forward.
Fighting for a Starting Spot
Adingra’s role in the Ivorian squad has also been uncertain. In the recent 2-0 victory over Burundi, he was named among the substitutes, only entering the match for the final 25 minutes.
Meanwhile, Minteh featured prominently for Gambia against Kenya, not only starting but also scoring in a dramatic 3-3 draw.
If given the chance to start, Adingra will aim to make a decisive impact against the Scorpions.
His speed, dribbling, and attacking flair remain key assets, and he will be eager to prove that he deserves more than a bench role, both for Ivory Coast and Brighton.
A Statement to Be Made
Beyond the club rivalry, Adingra will be focused on helping his nation secure an essential three points.
Ivory Coast’s previous encounter with Gambia ended in a 2-0 victory, and another win would propel them to 16 points, leapfrogging Gabon at the top of the standings.
However, Gambia, sitting fifth in the group with four points, will be looking to spring a surprise.
With Minteh in fine form, they pose a potential threat that Ivory Coast cannot afford to underestimate.
For Adingra, this match is more than just another World Cup qualifier—it is a chance to assert himself, silence any doubts, and take a step toward cementing his place as one of Africa’s brightest footballing prospects.
