Afonso Moreira's goal drought continues to frustrate Bayer Leverkusen forward

The 21-year-old forward Afonso Moreira is yet to score in 13 league games for Bayer Leverkusen, with the club's coach and sporting director urging more patience and composure in front of goal.

Afonso Moreira continues to struggle with a persistent goal drought at Bayer Leverkusen. The 21-year-old Portuguese forward also failed to score in the 2-4 home defeat to VfB Stuttgart last Saturday, despite taking six shots, more than any other Werkself player. In the 56th minute of the match, Moreira missed a clear chance against goalkeeper Dennis Seimen.

The team of coach Carles Martínez thus suffered its second loss in the last five matches and sits sixth in the Bundesliga with 13 points from eight games. They trail leaders Bayern Munich by five points.

Statistical Context

Moreira, who was signed for a substantial fee from Olympique Lyon in the summer, has played 13 Bundesliga games without scoring. In total, across 844 minutes of action for Bayer Leverkusen in the league, Europa League and cup, he has provided three assists but is yet to find the net himself. Last season, he scored eight goals and provided eleven assists in 38 games for Lyon. His last competitive goal therefore dates back to the spring.

Patience from Coach and Club

Coach Carles Martínez nonetheless saw positive aspects in Moreira's performance against Stuttgart. The 42-year-old said the striker caused the opponent many problems and played a very good game overall. He stated that Moreira, with his dynamism and pressing, is very important for the team. Sporting director Simon Rolfes, 44, analysed that Moreira wants the goal too much. He puts in a huge effort but fails in the final moment. Rolfes advised the Portuguese to be more patient and relaxed to improve his finishing. Moreira himself stated that the pressure does not crush him and he accepts the expectations at the German top club. He said he is working hard and is convinced the goals will come soon.

Upcoming Challenges

The opportunity to turn things around comes this very week for Moreira. On Thursday at 9 pm, Bayer Leverkusen play a Europa League match at Olympique Marseille. This is followed by the Bundesliga derby away to 1. FC Köln on Sunday at 3:30 pm, with Köln currently in 13th place. The Werkself hopes for more accuracy from their striker in these important games to continue the positive trend of three wins from the last five matches. The team's top scorer this season is Patrik Schick with seven goals. The derby in Cologne offers Moreira the next chance to finally end his goal frustration. The complete schedule can be found in the fixtures list.