Josh Maja marked his return to West Brom’s starting XI in style, scoring the decisive goal as the Baggies edged Norwich City 1-0 at Carrow Road on Wednesday night.
The 26-year-old forward, making his first league start since January, fired a crisp low shot into the bottom corner midway through the first half—a strike that ultimately sealed all three points for the visitors.
Maja’s return ignites West Brom’s attack
The goal not only gave West Brom a valuable away win but also offered Maja a personal breakthrough after a stop-start campaign marred by injury setbacks.
Speaking after the match, the club’s number nine admitted the moment carried extra significance given the long wait for his chance.
“It was amazing to be in the starting XI after a while. I was really looking forward to the opportunity to play, and I thank the gaffer for giving me the chance. I enjoyed myself. Scoring the winner was a brilliant feeling, but earning the win was the most important thing tonight. Hopefully we can push on from here.”
Maja, who scored just a handful of goals last season, hopes Wednesday’s strike will open the floodgates.
“Scoring goals is one of my strengths, and I hope to carry on scoring goals and being part of a winning team. I want this to be the start of a spell for me where I score as many goals as possible, which is what any forward wants.
It’s difficult to describe the feeling of scoring in detail, but it was definitely a rush. I had that feeling a few times last season, and it’s great to get off the mark this season. It’s a blessing.”
The Nigerian-born striker also reflected on the team’s encouraging start to the campaign and his own road back to full fitness, crediting the coaching and medical staff for their support.
Confidence boost for a demanding season
Maja stressed that the timing of his first goal of the 2025/26 season felt right as West Brom continue to chase promotion in a fiercely competitive Championship.
“I believe the game tonight was the perfect time for me to come in, score, and help the team secure the victory,” he said.
The Baggies’ head coach Ryan Mason was quick to praise the forward’s perseverance.
“I’m super happy for Josh Maja to score the goal. He’s worked very hard, and we’ve been patient with him. We believed that was the right thing to do because of the time he had out, but, at the same time, we know he can affect games of football. I think that will do him the world of good and give him lots of confidence.”
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