Orban begins new campaign in style as Gent pip Kortrijk in five-goal thriller

Orban was one of the best strikers in the Jupiler League last season, and he has started this season with a bang

Nigerian striker Gift Orban scored the third goal for Gent in their 3-2 victory over Kortrijk in their opening game of the new Jupiler League season, Soccernet reports.

Orban has been one of the revelations of 2023. He was a relatively unknown figure until Gent signed him from Stabaek in January, but he has turned out to be one of the club’s best signings ever.

The 21-year-old Nigerian scored 20 goals in 21 games for the Buffalos last season, and he has shown no signs of slowing down.

He retained his spot in the starting eleven when Gent welcomed Kortrijk to the Ghelamco Arena. The home side were always favourites to win, but they did not get the dream start that they would have wished.

The visitors scored just inside five minutes through Abdelkahar Kadir. However, Gent got back on track as Kortrijk defender Aleksandar Radovanovic scored an own goal.

As usual, Orban was up and about. He was heavily involved with Gent’s attack, and they eventually got their second through Hugo Cyupers in the 31st minute.

Orban’s work rate was finally rewarded in the second half. He had registered two attempts earlier, but both were off target. However, he eventually got his goal in the 71st minute via an assist from his Nigerian teammate Jordan Torunarigha.

Orban was taken off five minutes later as Gent have a continental engagement during the week.

Felipe Avenatti scored the final goal of the game in the 86th minute to ensure it ended 3-2.