Brighton & Hove Albion’s UEFA Conference League campaign took another step forward with a narrow 1-0 victory over Getafe on Thursday, but the result was overshadowed by the absence of Nigerian international Zadok Yohanna. The 20-year-old, who joined the Seagulls during the summer transfer window, has yet to make his European debut this season—a delay that now stretches into his second appearance in the competition.

Yohanna’s exclusion from the starting XI in Madrid was a notable omission, particularly given Brighton’s reliance on youth and homegrown talent under manager Graham Potter. The Nigerian’s absence left a gap in the attack, though Malick Yalcouyé’s clinical finish in the 64th minute secured the points. Verbruggen’s four-goal haul for Getafe—though nullified by the single goal—highlighted the physicality of the Spanish side, a challenge Brighton must address if they are to progress deeper into the tournament.

Yohanna’s prolonged wait for European action is not without precedent. The young midfielder has been a regular in the Premier League this season, but his limited minutes in the Conference League suggest a tactical preference for other players. Potter’s rotation strategy, which has seen players like Lewis Dunk and Adam Lallana feature prominently, may explain the decision, but Yohanna’s potential as a future star demands more than occasional glimpses. His ability to dictate tempo and link play in midfield could be decisive in a tournament where every point counts.

The stakes for Brighton in the Conference League are high. A win over Getafe keeps them in contention for the knockout stages, but consistency will be key. Yohanna’s eventual debut—whether as a starter or substitute—will be a critical moment for the club’s ambitions. For now, the Nigerian’s patience is being tested, but his talent remains undeniable. Whether he gets his chance soon enough will determine whether this season is merely a stepping stone or a breakthrough.