Nigeria international, Gift Orban found the back of the net as TSG Hoffenheim secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Werder Bremen in a preseason friendly held in Schwaz, Austria, on Friday.
Orban opened the scoring shortly after halftime, with Wouter Burger and Alexander Prass adding to the tally to complete a dominant second-half display for the German club.
The match showcased Hoffenheim’s growing Nigerian contingent, with four players from the West African nation featuring for the club during the doubleheader fixtures against the same opponent. Kevin Akpoguma, a regular Super Eagles defender, also took part in the friendlies alongside Orban.
Nigerian U-20 talents Benjamin Precious and Emmanuel Chukwu made second-half appearances in the 79th minute of the second match, both impressing with their energy and composure despite their limited time on the pitch. The promising duo helped Hoffenheim close out what proved to be a comprehensive victory.
Super Eagles, defender Felix Agu was in action for the opposition, representing Werder Bremen during the fixtures, highlighting the significant Nigerian presence across both sides.
The matches formed part of Hoffenheim’s ongoing preseason training camp, with the inclusion of the young Nigerian talents underlining the club’s commitment to youth development and their continued investment in players from the country.
Hoffenheim’s emphasis on Nigerian talent reflects a broader trend in European football, with clubs increasingly recognising the potential of players from Africa’s most populous nation. The representation of four Nigerian players in a single friendly demonstrates the growing influence of Super Eagles internationals and prospects within the Bundesliga outfit’s squad structure.
The convincing victory will provide encouraging signs for Hoffenheim ahead of the new campaign, particularly with Orban finding his scoring touch and the younger Nigerian prospects showing promise during their brief cameos.
Credit: punchng.com
