Simon Banza faces goal drought ahead of crucial matches

Simon Banza, the prolific striker for Sporting Braga, finds himself in the midst of a goal drought, raising concerns for both his club and the national team as critical fixtures approach.

Banza’s recent performances have seen him go five league matches without finding the back of the net or assisting a goal, marking his longest scoreless streak in over a year with Sporting Braga.

Since his impactful double against Portimonense on April 1, 2024, the Congolese forward has struggled to make his mark in subsequent league encounters against Arouca, Estoril, Vizela, Benfica, and Casa Pia.

This barren spell echoes a similar goalless run experienced between April 12 and May 14, 2023.

With his tally frozen at 21 league goals, Banza maintains a significant lead in the race for the league’s top scorer.

However, Sporting Club’s Viktor Gyökekeres currently holds the top spot with 26 goals, adding pressure on Banza to rediscover his scoring form.

The striker’s dip in form is not only a cause for concern for Sporting Braga but also raises alarm bells for the national team.

Sébastien Desabre, coach of the Leopards, faces the challenge of rejuvenating Banza’s confidence ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures.

As both club and country depend on Banza’s goal-scoring prowess, all eyes will be on the talented forward as he seeks to emerge from his goal drought and deliver when it matters most.