Nigerian striker Victor Orakpo made his home debut for OGC Nice during their historic 8-0 victory over Saint Etienne in a Ligue 1 match on September 20, 2024. Orakpo came off the bench in the 77th minute, replacing Mohamed-Ali Cho. The game had already been decided with Nice leading 6-0 at half time, courtesy of goals from Dylan Batubinsika’s own goal, Tanguy Ndombélé, Mohamed Ali Cho, Youssoufa Moukoko twice, and Evann Guessand. Nice added two more goals from Sofiane Diop and Pablo Rosario in the second half.
This emphatic win tied OGC Nice’s record for the most goals scored in a Ligue 1 match, a feat last achieved in 1957. The 18 year old Orakpo, who joined Nice’s B team from Nigeria’s VOE Football Academy in January 2024, impressed during pre season and was integrated into the first team. His notable performances in pre-season friendlies against Rizespor and Ipswich Town signalled his potential.
Orakpo previously made his Ligue 1 debut during the season opener against Auxerre and featured in another away match at Angers before making his home debut in this memorable game. His contract with Nice runs until June 2028, after a recent extension.
Editorial
Victor Orakpo’s rise to the first team at OGC Nice is a testament to his talent and hard work. At just 18 years old, he has already made significant strides, with his home debut coming during one of the club’s most dominant performances in recent history. Orakpo’s journey from Nigeria’s grassroots football to the top tier of French football showcases the importance of nurturing young talent and providing them with the right platform to shine.
His performances during pre-season, including goals against Rizespor and Ipswich Town, earned him a place in the first team, highlighting the confidence that Nice’s coaching staff has in his abilities. Orakpo’s home debut, though brief, is a step in the right direction, and we are confident that he will continue to develop and contribute to the team’s success in the future.
This is a moment of pride not just for Orakpo but for Nigerian football as well. His success will inspire other young Nigerian players, proving that hard work and perseverance can lead to opportunities in major European leagues.
Did You Know?
- OGC Nice’s 8-0 victory over Saint Etienne matched their club record for goals scored in a Ligue 1 match, last achieved in 1957.
- Victor Orakpo joined OGC Nice in January 2024 from Nigeria’s VOE Football Academy.
- Youssoufa Moukoko, who scored twice in the match, is also considered one of football’s brightest young talents.
- Orakpo has already played three Ligue 1 matches in his debut season, showing confidence in his abilities at a young age.
- OGC Nice became the first team in the 21st century to score six goals in the first half of a Ligue 1 game.
