Super Eagles sensation Gift Orban came off the bench to light up Berlin with a blistering brace as Lyon majestically dismantled Union Berlin 4-0 in a pre-season clash.
The Nigerian goal-poacher was introduced in the second half, replacing the ineffective Georges Mikautadze, and he proved his worth, Footballrover reports.
A goalless first half gave little indication of the goal fest to come as Lyon unleashed their attacking fury in the second period.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles broke the deadlock in the 49th minute before Said Benrahma doubled the lead 16 minutes later.
๐ฅ Ainsley Maitland-Niles has opened the scoring in Berlin thanks to Abnerโs play! ๐๐ด๐ต
โฏ You can watch #FCUOL live on @OLPLAY_Officiel ๐ https://t.co/Xndw9Iv5ug
— Olympique Lyonnais ๐ฌ๐ง๐บ๐ธ (@OL_English) August 3, 2024
But it was Orban who stole the show.
The striker pounced on a long ball from Lucas Perri to fire Lyon’s third past a helpless Union Berlin keeper in the 75th minute.
Gift Orbanโs decisive poacherโs effort for his first of the day ๐ด๐ต#FCUOL
— Olympique Lyonnais ๐ฌ๐ง๐บ๐ธ (@OL_English) August 3, 2024
Just nine minutes after that, he completed his brace with a simple tap-in, leaving the Bundesliga side reeling.
This commanding victory marks Lyon’s third win in five pre-season matches.
Next up, they face a stern test against Arsenal on Sunday.
Orban’s future at Lyon has been the subject of much speculation this summer.
86' Gift Orban adds his second of the game and our 4th!!!! ๐ด๐ต#FCUOL 0๏ธโฃ-4โฃ pic.twitter.com/pRPJb583cI
— Olympique Lyonnais ๐ฌ๐ง๐บ๐ธ (@OL_English) August 3, 2024
With the arrival of Mikautadze and the presence of Alexander Lacazette, the striker’s game time looked uncertain.
However, this brace will undoubtedly put him back in the manager’s plans.
The Nigerian goal machine, who joined Lyon from Gent last season after a series of eye-catching performances, will be hoping to build on this momentum and secure a regular starting spot.
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