Hoffenheim friendlies: Gift Orban scores spectacular goal, Flying Eagles forward Benjamin bags brace

Former Super Eagles invitee Gift Orban and Nigeria U20 international Precious Benjamin were on target for TSG Hoffenheim teams in pre-season fixtures on Saturday, July 12.

Hoffenheim's first team kicked off their pre-season fixtures with a 3-2 win over SGV Freiberg, who finished third in the Regionalliga Südwest last season.

While Nigeria international centre-back Kevin Akpoguma played the entirety of the first half, Orban entered the fray at the start of the second half.

Just three minutes after coming on, Orban made an instant impact by restoring Hoffenheim's one-goal advantage with a stunning long-range strike to make it 2-1.

The Nigerian forward continued to influence proceedings, turning provider in the 63rd minute with a perfectly weighted pass to David Mokwa, who calmly finished to extend the lead. 

Hoffenheim will continue their pre-season preparations with a friendly fixture against Sportfreunde Lauffen on Wednesday, July 16.

At U23 level, The Kraichgauers drew 2-2 against SC Freiburg II at the end of their training camp in Lautenbach (Black Forest) and Oberkirch, with Flying Eagles forward Benjamin the hero for Hoffenheim. 

With Hoffenheim two goals down, Benjamin sparked a comeback by slotting home a pass from Ahmed Etri in the 63rd minute to reduce the deficit.

He completed his brace just seven minutes later, converting a cross from Nader Jindaoui that followed a short corner routine involving Etri. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com