Terem Moffi has been praised by his former coach Edgaras Jankauskas after opening his account for FC Porto in their 3-1 league win over FC Arouca.
The Nigeria international came off the bench to score deep into stoppage time at the Estádio do Dragão, converting a cross from William Gomes to seal the victory.
It was Moffi’s first goal since joining Porto on loan from OGC Nice, having been limited to just 21 minutes of action before the weekend fixture.
Moffi. Photo Credit: Imago
Jankauskas, who worked with Moffi during his spell at Lithuanian side FK Riteriai, said the striker’s development over the past six years has been striking.
“Moffi was there, just arrived. He was someone easy to guide, because he wanted to learn,” Jankauskas told Portuguese outlet Desporto ao Minuto.
The former coach recalled a young forward blessed with pace, strength and a powerful left foot, but one whose predictability limited his effectiveness.
“His right leg was not at the intended level. He had a great left foot, speed, agility and physical power, but he was predictable,” he said.
“He started to improvise on the right, and it improved a lot.”
Photo Credit: Imago
Moffi moved to Europe as a teenager, initially joining Buckswood Football Academy in England before spells in Lithuania with Kauno Zalgiris and Riteriai.
At Riteriai, he scored 20 league goals in 29 appearances, performances that earned him moves to Belgium and later France, where he featured for Lorient and Nice before his switch to Portugal.
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Jankauskas believes Porto’s attacking style could suit the 26-year-old.
“I imagine FC Porto as an easier step for him,” he said. “It’s a more offensive team, of higher quality, with better players. He will be better served.
Moffi in training ahead of Sporting Lisbon. Photo Credit: Porto/X
“He is good at opening spaces, good in small spaces, and he runs a lot. He is a complete player to succeed in Portugal.”
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Porto are currently top of Liga Portugal, four points clear of reigning champions Sporting CP, as they chase another domestic title.
