Eric Ayiah found the back of the net for the first time since his arrival at , scoring the consolation goal in their 3–1 defeat to in the .
The 26-year-old attacker, who operates as a left winger or centre-forward, delivered a moment of quality in an otherwise difficult afternoon for his side. With Santarém trailing, Ayiah stepped up to reduce the deficit, showing composure and sharp attacking instincts to beat the goalkeeper and register his maiden strike for the club.
The goal was a significant personal milestone for the former Ghana U17 striker, marking his first since completing a loan move from . After settling into his new environment and adapting to the demands of Portuguese third-tier football, Ayiah’s breakthrough moment will serve as a timely confidence booster.
Although the result did not go in UD Santarém’s favour, Ayiah’s contribution offered a bright spark. His movement in the attacking third, combined with his ability to operate both out wide and centrally, continues to provide tactical flexibility for the team. The goal demonstrated his alertness inside the box and his determination to make an impact.
Ayiah’s journey has been one of resilience and steady development. Once a standout performer at youth level for Ghana, he has steadily built experience across different leagues, and his latest chapter in Portugal represents another opportunity to reassert his goal-scoring credentials.
For UD Santarém, the defeat will be disappointing, but the sight of their new forward getting off the mark is encouraging. Goals often change a striker’s rhythm and belief, and this breakthrough could be the start of a productive spell for Ayiah in Liga 3.
As the season progresses, both player and club will be hoping that this first goal is a sign of more to come, with Ayiah aiming to transform promising performances into consistent attacking returns.
