Nigerian forward Gift Orban faces a two-match suspension after being shown a red card during the game between his team, KAA Gent, and KAS Eupen.

Orban received his first professional red card on Sunday, September 24, as Gent secured a 2-1 victory over Eupen in a Belgian Pro League match at the Ghelamco Arene.

In the 45th minute of the match, Orban was dismissed by the referee following a VAR review for elbowing Rune Paeshuyse in the neck during an off-the-ball incident, resulting in a straight red card.

As a consequence of his suspension, Gift Orban will be unavailable for the upcoming league fixture between Gent and the reigning league champion, Antwerp. Additionally, he is expected to pay a 1,500 euro fine.

Had the Super Eagles invitee received a straight red card for violent conduct, he would have faced a more extended suspension. However, since this was his first such offense in 57 professional matches, his penalty was somewhat more lenient.

A statement from the Belgian FA noted, "The Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office ruled that it involved 'physical misconduct,' specifically a brutal push with high intensity. Orban's clean disciplinary record in his previous matches worked in his favor."

The statement further stated, "A minimum suspension of two matches, which is the lower limit as determined in the indicative table, is appropriate," and a fine of 1,500 euros is requested.

The club also indicated that they would consider any recommendations for a peaceful resolution and would make a decision on the sanction on September 26.

It's worth noting that Orban missed the Super Eagles' 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualification game against São Tomé and Príncipe earlier this month due to fitness issues. He has struggled with injuries and a lack of form this season, failing to score in his previous five appearances for Gent. Nevertheless, he has managed to score six goals in 11 games for the Belgian team across all competitions.