Gift Orban: Nigerian striker set for Hoffenheim debut

By Wale Mustapha

Promising Nigerian striker Gift Orban is set to make his competitive debut for German Bundesliga side Hoffenheim against VfL Wolfsburg at the PreZero Arena on Saturday.

Orban joined Hoffenheim from French Ligue 1 giants Olympique Lyon in a permanent transfer late last year.

The 22-year-old, who is also waiting for his Super Eagles debut, featured in Hoffenheim’s 3-1 friendly win against Augsburg last Monday as he continued his integration into the team.

Having had a challenging spell at Lyon, Orban will be eager to make a strong impression in his first competitive match for Hoffenheim.

His arrival is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the club’s attack, which has struggled in recent weeks.

Hoffenheim has managed just two wins in their last 10 league games, and Orban’s goalscoring abilities could be pivotal in turning their fortunes around.