Gift Orban scored an excellent double at the Chillax Arena in Oostakker as KAA Gent and Mamelodi Sundowns FC battled to a 2-2 draw in KAA Gent’s final friendly match of their preseason on Friday, 21 July, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 13-time South African champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, got off to a flying start as they took the lead just four minutes into the game.
Ribeiro found the back of the net, showing the reigning South African champions’ intent from the get-go.
After 18 minutes, Coetzee unleashed a magnificent strike from outside the box, doubling Sundowns’ lead and putting them in a commanding position.
But the Buffalos of Gent were not going to back down easily.
Six minutes later, their attacking flair was rewarded when Orban curled a beautiful shot into the net, narrowing the gap to one goal.
The first half ended with this 2-1 scoreline, promising an exciting second half.
The start of the second half saw Gent coming out strong, putting immense pressure on their opponents. Their relentless efforts paid off as they capitalised on a defensive mistake, with Tissoudali delivering a pass to Orban, who clinically finished to level the scores.
With 75 minutes gone, Gent made tactical changes, introducing Nigerian youngsters Goodluck Igbokwe and Ahmed Abdullahi, while the influential Orban was withdrawn.
Despite some late opportunities for both teams, the score remained 2-2 until the final whistle, resulting in a hard-fought draw.
For KAA Gent, this match marked the end of their preparations for the upcoming season.
Despite receiving interest from clubs abroad, Orban’s involvement indicates that he will likely remain with Gent as they kick off their Belgian league campaign next weekend.
Gent’s first league match will be a home clash against KV Kortrijk on July 30.
