Nigerian striker, Gift Orban, was named Man of the Match after inspiring Hellas Verona to a 1-1 draw against Juventus in their Serie A encounter on Saturday.
Making only his second appearance in the Italian topflight, Orban scored his debut goal for Verona, calmly converting a penalty just before half-time to cancel out Francisco Conceição’s 19th-minute opener for the Bianconeri.
His composed display earned him the Man of the Match award.
Despite Orban’s heroics, Verona’s wait for a first league win of the season continues, with the club managing three draws and one defeat from their opening four matches.
They currently sit 15th on the table with three points.
Orban joined Verona this summer on a season-long loan from Bundesliga side Hoffenheim, continuing a remarkable journey that began in Nigeria.
Discovered by Stabæk scouts in 2021 during a showcase tournament, he moved to Norway the following year and quickly became a sensation.
The striker netted freely for Stabæk, earning comparisons to former club idol Alanzinho and later securing a permanent deal.
He went on to finish as joint-top scorer in the 2022 Norwegian First Division with 16 goals, playing a pivotal role in Stabæk’s promotion while also claiming the Young Player of the Year award.
His rapid rise earned him a first Super Eagles call-up in May 2023 for AFCON qualifiers, though an injury kept him from making his senior debut.
Now at Verona, Orban has opened his Serie A account and signaled his intent to make a mark on Italian football.
