Can Orban end goals drought?

  • Post category:Sports

Gift Orban’s exceptional goal-scoring prowess during Gent’s impressive finish to the previous season filled many with hope, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra. His outstanding performance, despite joining Gent from Stabaek midway through the campaign, resulted in 20 goals in 22 games. This remarkable achievement attracted the attention of top clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham, who monitored his progress closely.

Orban became the linchpin of Gent’s attack, propelling them to qualify for the UEFA Conference League. His prolific form raised expectations for another stellar season ahead.

However, the current season has marked a sharp contrast for Orban. He has only managed to score six times in 12 appearances across all competitions, including two goals in seven league games. Additionally, he has failed to find the back of the net in his last four matches in all competitions.

Despite Orban’s dip in form, Gent remains undefeated in the Belgian Jupiler League this season, securing five wins and four draws in their first nine games. They currently occupy the second position in the league table, trailing behind leaders Union Saint Gilloise.

Orban returned from a two-match suspension in Gent’s recent 1-1 draw against RWD Molenbeek, where he had a relatively inconspicuous performance. This led his coach, Hein Vanhaezebrouck, to express concerns about the form of his prized asset. Vanhaezebrouck noted that although Orban is the team’s top scorer, his recent performances have been less productive, with a lack of quality crosses and efficiency in front of goal.

Orban’s last goal was in August against Sint Truiden, and former goalkeeper Dosu Joseph believes he can end his goal drought in the upcoming match against Maccabi Tel Aviv. Dosu emphasized that all strikers experience dry spells and overcoming them depends on individual resilience. He suggested that Gent should play to Orban’s strengths to help him regain his scoring touch.

Football agent Ayo Makinwa echoed Dosu’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for patience and increased confidence in Orban. Makinwa believes that Orban’s recent return to the pitch after a period of absence will contribute to his improved performance against Maccabi Tel Aviv.

In Group B, Maccabi Tel Aviv currently leads with three points following their 3-2 victory over Icelandic side Breioablik on match-day 1, while Gent is in second place with one point after their 1-1 draw against Zorya.

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