Prince Segbefia – AJ Auxerre (11/02/2012)

Here is a collector's item of great rarity, from the intense and icy battles of the French football elite. This match-worn jersey was sported by the young and promising Togolese international midfielder Prince Segbefia in the colors of AJ Auxerre during the crucial home match against FC Lorient at the Stade de l'Abbé-Deschamps, for the 23rd round of Ligue 1.

Match Context: A Battle of Headers in Polar Cold

In extreme winter conditions and on a frozen pitch, the Burgundian team led by Laurent Fournier fought a crucial battle for survival against Christian Gourcuff's Merlus. Despite the very precarious playing conditions, both teams pushed forward and traded blows, making perfect use of aerial play. AJA broke the deadlock in the first half thanks to powerful defender Willy Boly, who rose higher than everyone else to open the scoring with a header in the 18th minute. After the break, Lorient intensified the pressure and managed to equalize, also with a header, through Innocent Emeghara (63rd minute). The two teams settled for a draw (1-1).

Prince Segbefia: The Rising Star of the AJA Academy

A versatile and hard-working midfielder, with great stamina, quick forward projection, and valuable athletic impact in the midfield, young Prince Segbefia perfectly embodied the Burgundian club's tradition of training excellence. Starting in the heart of the game during this high-stakes clash, the number 28 showed great generosity, making numerous recovery runs and interventions to counter Breton transitions. Worn during this icy and courageously fought evening, his official long-sleeved jersey features the official Ligue 1 badge on the sleeve as well as all specific professional markings of the era. An authentic AJA collector's item.