WATCH: Lorch starts to pay back big-money transfer with debut goal for Libyan giants

Thembinkosi Lorch did not need time to settle in at his new club as he scored on his debut for Libyan side Al-Ittihad on Sunday.

Lorch, who sealed a big-money transfer to the club from Moroccan giants Wydad AC this month, made his debut in a Libyan Cup match against Al Shomooa.

The former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns forward was among a host of new signings who were unleashed by Al-Ittihad on Sunday and he, alongside Burkina Faso international Stephane Aziz Ki, were introduced in the second half.

Lorch makes immediate impact in Libya

Lorch’s moment of glory arrived in the 85^th minute when he pounced on a loose ball in the box and fired home on his left foot to break the deadlock with his goal making all the difference as his side won 1-0.

The South African forward and Ki were among a host of big-name players lured to Al-Ittihad in January, the others being Cameroonian striker Anatole Abang, midfielder Roger Aholou and Togolese Yawo Agbagno.

Al-Ittihad have been showing great ambition as they bid to conquer both Libya and Africa and will hope that Lorch maintains his scoring form.

‘Nyoso’ offered lucrative contract by Al-Ittihad

Lorch signed a lucrative deal with the club when he joined on a two-and-a-half-year contract which will see him earn $75,000 (R1.2 million) per month, making him one of the best paid players in Africa.

Al-Ittihad have been in top form since being eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup at the preliminary round by Egyptian side Al Masry.

They are unbeaten in eight games, having won seven and drawn one, and enjoy a six-point lead in their Libyan league group standings.