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Gift Orban’s late equalizer secures draw for Hoffenheim, Akpoguma hails team’s fighting spirit
By Dayo Awoniyi
Gift Orban’s dramatic late goal and a strong defensive performance from Kevin Akpoguma helped Hoffenheim earn a crucial 1-1 draw against Stuttgart in the Bundesliga on Saturday.
Hoffenheim found themselves trailing 1-0 at halftime, but their resilience and determination were on full display in the second half.
Akpoguma, who was pivotal in shoring up the defense, hailed the team’s fighting spirit after they earned a point from a hard-fought match.
“It was a deserved 1-1,” Akpoguma said. “VfB were better in the first half, but in the second half, we had more passion and more energy. We earned the goal through good pressing.”
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Orban’s 88th-minute strike sparked wild celebrations from the home fans, and Akpoguma was quick to acknowledge the team’s resolve.
“We showed character again and came back after falling behind,” he said.
The defender also pointed out areas for improvement, especially when facing quality sides like Stuttgart.
“We were asleep at 0-1, we need to defend better. Stuttgart have enormous quality in attack.”
The result leaves Hoffenheim in 14th place in the Bundesliga standings with 22 points from 23 matches.
Akpoguma remained optimistic about the team’s ability to build on the draw.
“Every point is important, so I’m satisfied,” he added.
