Hellas Verona defender Armel Bella-Kotchap has praised Super Eagles striker Gift Orban, describing him as an “exceptional” player after his brace secured a dramatic 2–1 victory over bottom-placed Fiorentina in a Serie A clash on Sunday.
Orban, introduced in the 35th minute to replace forward Giovane, needed just seven minutes to make an impact. He opened the scoring in the 42nd minute before sealing the win deep into stoppage time with a 93rd-minute strike, earning Verona only their second victory of the season.
Bella-Kotchap and the Verona defence were resolute throughout the encounter, successfully repelling sustained Fiorentina pressure. Paolo Zanetti’s side recorded 46 clearances and 12 interceptions, while the goalkeeper played his part with four crucial saves to keep the hosts at bay.
The German defender, on loan from Southampton, singled out Orban for special praise while also commending the collective effort of the team.
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“I’m really happy for him (Orban). He was exceptional, played a very important match and helped us win with his two goals. He, like the whole team, must continue like this,” Bella-Kotchap told DAZN after the game.
“We worked as a team. Each of my teammates did the right job for this victory, and we want to continue like this.”
Verona’s final game of 2025 will see them travel to the San Siro to face AC Milan. The Gialloblù will be aiming to end the year on a high with a positive result that could lift them out of the relegation zone for the first time this season.
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