New Signing Daka Makes Instant Impact for HSV in Friendly Win

New Hamburger SV signing Patson Daka wasted no time making his mark, contributing to all three goals in the team's 3-1 friendly victory over Bundesliga relegated side 1. FC Heidenheim. The 27-year-old Zambian forward, who joined HSV earlier in the week, needed only 28 minutes to spark hope among the club's fans that he could bolster their depleted attacking department.

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I think that was a good start.

Daka entered the match in the 34th minute and quickly earned a penalty, which was converted for the opening goal. He then provided the assist for the second goal shortly after halftime and capped his impressive cameo by scoring the final goal himself. "I think that was a good start," Daka commented after the game held in Kematen, Austria. Coach Merlin Polzin praised the striker's immediate impact, noting, "Patson has shown what he's here for: pressing and, when he has the ball, scoring goals." Polzin added that Daka's integration has been swift, highlighting his lively and communicative nature.

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Patson has shown what he's here for: pressing and, when he has the ball, scoring goals.

Having only trained with the team since Wednesday, Daka expressed his comfort and enthusiasm for his new surroundings. "I like this team. The guys are great," he said. "They make me feel at home. It doesn't feel like I've only been here a few days. It feels more like I've been here for a long time." This positive adaptation is crucial as Daka seeks to reignite his career after a challenging period in England.

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It was a good start, considering he's only been with the guys for a few days.

Formerly of RB Salzburg, Daka moved to Leicester City for €30 million in 2021 but failed to establish himself, experiencing two relegations with the club. His move to HSV, on a free transfer with a one-year contract, represents a fresh start. For Hamburg, it's a low-risk, potentially high-reward signing that could significantly strengthen their attack.

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I like this team. The guys are great. They give me the feeling of being at home. It doesn't feel like I've only been here a few days. It feels more like I've been here for a long time.