FC Lorient are off to a flyer in season 2022-23 thanks in no small part to the exploits of Nigeria striker Terem Moffi, who is in career-best form in front of goal, mixing it with Neymar and Mbappé by hitting six in eight matches!
Few expected Lorient to be sitting on the podium alongside PSG and Marseille going into October, but Les Merlus are flying and their Nigerian hitman is back in form. Indeed, only Neymar has scored more goals than Terem Moffi, who has netted six times in his first eight appearances this season.
What's more, the 23-year-old isn't only scoring - his speed and direct running have caused opponents countless problems.
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Moffi looks a more assured player these days… the striker doesn't let his head drop… after missing from the spot against Toulouse, he stepped up again a week later, and scored.
"I missed a penalty last week. I have to work on staying more calm and make sure I score when I get another chance," Moffi told the Ligue 1 Show on beIN SPORTS. "It's good for my confidence and for the team and for the supporters."
After arriving from Belgian side Kortrijk in 2020, Moffi was an instant hit in Ligue 1 Uber Eats, registering 14 goals in his first season. It was tougher last term, though, when the Nigerian only managed eight league goals.
Le Bris: 'Great faith in Terem'
Not that anybody at the club doubted Moffi's ability.
"I have great faith in Terem," declared Lorient coach Régis Le Bris. "We talked about things a lot. Forwards can go through barren spells, just like goalkeepers can have a dip in form. Finishing becomes harder. But they can still help the team in other ways… and Terem has been helping us in a lot of different areas since the start of the season."
Unchained
Moffi is also benefitting from Lorient's slick attacking football this season…
With Dango Outtara shining on the left flank, Moffi is taking advantage. The Burkina Faso winger has set up three of the striker's goals.
New Lorient boss Le Bris, who worked as assistant coach last season, thinks the Nigerian international (seven caps, two goals) could develop into one of Europe's most coveted forwards.
"He's a player who can play in the biggest leagues," judged the Lorient boss. "He still has quite a few things he needs to work on, but just like any young player, he has lots of potential."
Lorient and Moffi will be looking to continue their fine form, at home against Lille, on Sunday afternoon.
