Raphael Lea’i scores twice in first preseason match for Velež Mostar

In an exhilarating preseason friendly match, FK Velež Mostar showcased their dominance with an impressive 8-0 victory over HNK Sloga Gornji. The game served as a promising start to the team’s preparations for the upcoming 2023/24 season, and it was marked by the stellar performance of Solomon Islands’ international, Raphael Lea’i.

Having recently represented his national team in Asia, Lea’i returned to Bosnia and Herzegovina with renewed vigor and wasted no time in making his mark during the preseason. The 19-year-old forward displayed his immense talent by scoring a brace, highlighting his potential to become an even more valuable asset to Velež Mostar in the upcoming season.

Raphael Lea’i’s debut season as a professional player for Velež Mostar had already garnered attention, and his strong showing in this preseason match only reinforced the belief that he possesses the qualities to excel at the highest level. With his electrifying pace, technical prowess, and clinical finishing ability, Lea’i demonstrated his ability to contribute significantly to his team’s success.

The match against HNK Sloga Gornji saw Lea’i combine his individual brilliance with the collective strength of the Velež Mostar squad. The team displayed an attacking mindset from the opening whistle, and their relentless pressure quickly overwhelmed their third-tier opponents.

Lea’i’s goals were instrumental in setting the tone for the game – opening the scoreline for his side and also scoring the 5th goal still in the first half. With his intelligent movement and keen eye for goal, he showcased his predatory instincts in the attacking third. Each goal demonstrated his versatility as a forward, as he adeptly finished chances with both his right and left foot.

As the season approaches, the focus will now shift to harnessing the potential of the entire squad and fine-tuning their strategies and tactics. With Raphael Lea’i already proving his worth and the team’s collective strength on display, FK Velež Mostar will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season, fueled by the aspirations of achieving even greater heights.