The 2025 calendar year has proven too be a challenging one for Belgian striker Loïs Openda, marked by a significant dip in his goal-scoring form. This dry spell, impacting both his club and national team performances, has raised concerns among fans and pundits alike, prompting a closer look at the factors contributing to his current struggles.

Openda’s last goal for the Belgian national team,the Red Devils,dates back to October 14,2024,in a Nations League fixture against France.This extended period without finding the back of the net is a stark contrast to the prolific scoring record expected of a top-tier attacker.

The situation is equally concerning at the club level.Since his last goal on April 11, 2025, while playing for RB Leipzig against Wolfsburg, openda has struggled to replicate his previous form. His summer transfer to Juventus, a club with high expectations, has not yet seen him break his scoring duck, despite accumulating 204 minutes of playing time.

Arriving in Turin on loan with a substantial purchase option of €43 million, Openda was envisioned as a key player to replace the departed Marks First and inject much-needed speed into Juventus’ attack. While his effort and commitment on the field are evident, the crucial element of goals has been conspicuously absent.

The Italian Press Demands More from Openda

The Italian media has taken notice of Openda’s scoring drought, with prominent publications highlighting his current predicament. La Gazzetta dello Sport has headlined the situation as “Il digiuno di Openda,” translating to “Openda’s fast,” and described him as “a player full of energy, but without efficiency.” The newspaper emphasizes that a six-month goal drought is a considerable period for a center forward, a position where scoring is paramount.

“A player full of energy,but without efficiency.”

La Gazzetta dello sport on Loïs Openda’s form.

For strikers, a single goal can often be the catalyst to reignite confidence and break a slump. If manager Rudi Garcia decides to start Openda in the upcoming match against Wales, the pressure will be immense for him to deliver and end his scoring drought.

Expert Analysis and Potential Factors

Several factors could be contributing to Openda’s current struggles. A change in league and team dynamics can often take time to adjust to. The tactical systems of both Juventus and the Belgian national team might also differ from what he was accustomed to at RB Leipzig, requiring a period of adaptation.

Moreover, the psychological impact of a prolonged goal drought cannot be underestimated. The pressure to score, especially at a club like Juventus with a demanding fanbase, can create a self-perpetuating cycle of anxiety that hinders performance. As a sports psychologist specializing in elite athletes noted, “Confidence is a striker’s most valuable asset. When it wavers, even simple chances can feel insurmountable.”

“Confidence is a striker’s most valuable asset.When it wavers, even simple chances can feel insurmountable.”

Unnamed Sports Psychologist on Striker Psychology.

Real-World Parallels in Sports

Openda’s situation is not unique in the world of professional sports. Many high-profile athletes have experienced similar periods of slumps. Consider the case of a star quarterback in the NFL who, after a record-breaking season, finds himself struggling with interceptions and a lower completion percentage. The pressure to perform, coupled with defensive adjustments by opposing teams, can lead to a temporary decline. The key for these athletes, and for Openda, is often resilience, support from their team, and a strategic approach to regaining form.

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

Recent reports suggest that Juventus is actively seeking solutions to help Openda regain his scoring touch. This could involve tailored training regimens, video analysis sessions focusing on his movement and finishing, and possibly a shift in tactical approach to create more scoring opportunities for him. For Belgium,with major tournaments