Super Eagles: Why Gift Orban could become difficult for Chelle to ignore — 2 reasons

Gift Orban has enjoyed an impressive start to life at Amedspor which could put him back in contention for a place in the Super Eagles.

The Nigerian striker joined the Turkish club on loan from German side Hoffenheim in the summer after spending last season at Hellas Verona in Italy. 

He scored seven goals and provided two assists in 28 Serie A appearances. However, an altercation with a fan towards the end of the season prematurely ended his spell at the club as he was banned for the final games of the campaign before eventually leaving. 

Orban has been more productive this season, scoring seven goals as well as providing two assists in six Turkish Super Lig appearances, including a hat-trick against Istanbul Basaksehir.

The 24-year-old has previously received an invitation to the Super Eagles under former coach Jose Peseiro, but did not eventually get the chance to make his debut.

With Eric Chelle open to giving new players a chance, Orban’s form could give him another opportunity to earn a place in the squad.

Nigeria have struggled to find the right balance in attack at times, including during their recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Although Orban is not guaranteed a call-up, there are some reasons why his performances could make him difficult for Chelle to ignore.

Orban’s goalscoring form is difficult to overlook

One major reason Orban could earn another Super Eagles invitation is his remarkable form this season.

Seven goals in six league appearances is an impressive return for any striker, and Orban has shown that he can make an impact even when he does not start a game.

He came off the bench to score against Trabzonspor and Kasimpasa before making a bigger impact against Basaksehir, where he found the net three times. His performance against Besiktas, when he scored and provided an assist, also showed what he can offer in attack.

If he maintains this form, Chelle may find it harder to overlook him when selecting his next squad.

Super Eagles need more reliable options in attack

Nigeria’s attacking options are not short of quality, but the team still needs players who can convert chances in very crucial games.

During the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, the Super Eagles suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau after opening with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar. The result exposed the team’s difficulties on a frustrating day, even though one poor performance alone does not tell the full story of Nigeria’s attacking strength.

With Victor Osimhen absent, the Super Eagles struggled in attack and Orban could provide the solution to this. 

The Amedspor star could give the Franco-Malian another option to consider and his recent scoring record shows how effective he can be in front of goal.

Orban will be hoping to continue his goalscoring form when club football returns after the September international break this weekend, with Amedspor in action against Genclerbirligi in the Turkish Super Lig, as they target another win to maintain their strong start to the season.