Gift Orban announced himself on the Serie A stage with a historic first goal for Hellas Verona, firing home a crucial penalty to earn his side a 1-1 draw against Juventus.
The Nigerian striker’s equaliser not only secured a hard-fought point but also halted Juve’s perfect start to the season, ensuring the Stadio Marc’Antonio Bentegodi witnessed a night of resilience and drama.
Gift Orban’s historic goal for Hellas Verona
Juventus took control early, breaking the deadlock in the 19th minute when Khephren Thuram’s clever pass released Francisco Conceição, who calmly slotted past the keeper.
Verona looked shaken, but Orban carried their fight. Just before halftime, the 23-year-old stepped up after VAR spotted João Mário’s handball.
Under pressure, Orban kept his composure and powered his penalty past Michele Di Gregorio, the ball clipping the underside of the bar before crossing the line.
That strike made sure his name was written in Verona history books—at 23 years and 65 days, Orban became the youngest foreign player to score for the club against Juventus in Serie A.
Verona Hold Firm as Juventus Stumble
Orban remained Verona’s main threat, testing Di Gregorio with a fierce drive and leading the attack until he was substituted late on.
Suat Serdar thought he had turned the game on its head, but a second VAR check ruled his effort offside.
Despite extending their winless start to four games, Verona could celebrate stopping Juventus’ perfect run.
The result left Verona on three points in 15th place, while Juve edged a point clear at the top.
For Orban, however, the night marked the true beginning of his Verona journey — and a moment that could shape their season as he deservedly earned the man of the match award for himself.
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