Gift Orban once again made a compelling case for Super Eagles consideration after scoring twice to help Hellas Verona secure a crucial 2-1 away win over Fiorentina in Serie A.
On loan from German side Hoffenheim, Orban has now recorded four goals and one assist in 12 appearances, continuing an impressive run despite remaining uncapped at international level and overlooked for AFCON 2025.
The Nigerian forward, who earned a Super Eagles call-up under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen ahead of Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers against São Tomé and Príncipe in 2023, is yet to make his senior debut.
Verona s Gift Orban celebrates after scoring the goal of 0-1 during the Serie A match between Fiorentina and Verona at the Artemio Franchi stadium in Florence. Photo Credit: Imago
Despite being only mid-December, the encounter at the Artemio Franchi Stadium had the feel of a relegation six-pointer, with both sides entering the clash having managed just one Serie A win between them this season.
Fiorentina came into the match buoyed by recent success in the UEFA Conference League, but their domestic struggles were again exposed as Verona grew into the contest.
The game began at a frantic pace, with chances at both ends. Martin Frese struck the crossbar early for Verona, before Moise Kean went close for Fiorentina, firing narrowly over the bar after the quarter-hour mark.
Verona s Gift Orban awarded as Player of the match during the Serie A match between Fiorentina and Verona at the Artemio Franchi stadium in Florence. Photo Credit: Imago
Verona were forced into an early change in the 35th minute when Giovane was withdrawn, but his replacement proved decisive. Just three minutes before half-time, Orban broke the deadlock, showing admirable composure as he finished from the edge of the box following a swift counterattack sparked by a Fiorentina corner.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Fiorentina pushing for an equaliser. Dodô wasted a good opportunity shortly after the restart, while Luca Ranieri headed over from close range as the hosts applied pressure.
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Their persistence paid off in the 69th minute, albeit fortuitously, when Unai Núñez turned the ball into his own net to restore parity.
Gift Orban during the Serie A match between Fiorentina and Verona at the Artemio Franchi stadium in Florence. Photo Credit: Imago
However, Verona refused to settle for a point. Deep into stoppage time, Orban struck again, finding space inside the box and finishing with confidence to seal back-to-back Serie A wins for Paolo Vanoli’s side.
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The defeat leaves Fiorentina winless in 15 league matches this season (D6, L9) and eight points adrift of safety, while Verona move to within two points of 17th-placed Parma, breathing fresh life into their survival bid.
