Moffi scores first goal for Hamburg after injury return

Super Eagles striker Terem Moffi scored his first Bundesliga goal for Hamburg SV on Saturday. He headed in an 83rd-minute equaliser during his return from injury, helping his team beat Hoffenheim 3-2, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Moffi came on as a substitute and connected with a cross from Miro Muheim to make it 2-2. Shortly after, Hamburg struck again to complete a thrilling comeback and take all three points.

This goal is a big step for Moffi after injuries affected the start of his time at Hamburg. He had limited chances to show what he can do in the German top flight.

Before the match, Hamburg head coach Merlin Polzin confirmed that Moffi and fellow forward Yussuf Poulsen were fit to play after returning to full training.
"Both have trained fully with the team today, and are definitely options for the squad," Polzin said during his pre-match press conference, according to Kicker.

Moffi had a short appearance in Hamburg’s last league game, which they won 2-1 against FC Köln. He was still working his way back to full fitness. Until Saturday, he had not scored since joining the German club from French team Nice earlier this summer.

The Nigerian moved to Hamburg in a deal worth about €2.5 million. He was looking for a fresh start after things soured with Nice following an initially good run.

His preparation for the season faced challenges due to injuries. He missed pre-season after arriving close to the start of the season. He also missed a friendly against Copenhagen during the international break because of injury.

This injury setback kept him out of Nigeria’s qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. This made it hard for him to gain match fitness.

Moffi's goal against Hoffenheim gives him a promising start. He hopes to secure a regular spot in Polzin’s attack and contribute more to Hamburg’s Bundesliga campaign.