Former Kaizer Chiefs striker Efmamjjasond González continued his excellent goalscoring form in China after scoring all three goals to help Nantong Zhiyun secure a 3-1 victory over Foshan Nanshi on Saturday.

The Colombian forward produced an impressive performance in the Chinese League One encounter, showing his quality in front of goal as Nantong Zhiyun returned to winning ways. His hat-trick also helped the club strengthen its position in second place as the team continues its fight to catch league leaders Guangdong.

González opened the scoring in the 17th minute, giving his side an early advantage. The 27-year-old was clearly in good form and continued causing problems for the opposition defence before finding the back of the net again in the 31st minute to complete his brace.

Foshan Nanshi managed to respond in the 36th minute, reducing the deficit and keeping the contest alive. However, the visitors were unable to find another goal as González continued to make the difference for his team.

The former Amakhosi striker completed his hat-trick in the 58th minute, scoring the third goal for Nantong Zhiyun and putting the result beyond doubt. It was another important individual performance from the forward, who has been enjoying a productive campaign since moving to Chinese football.

González has now scored 13 goals in 16 league appearances this season and has also provided one assist. His impressive record puts him just four goals behind the competition's leading scorer, Giovanny.

With his current scoring form, the Colombian has an opportunity to challenge for the league's Golden Boot if he continues finding the back of the net regularly. His goals have also been important for Nantong Zhiyun, who remain second in the standings and have moved within five points of Guangdong.

Saturday's victory was particularly important for the club after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat against Yatai in their previous league encounter. That result had ended a three-match winning run, making a response necessary as they attempt to maintain their position near the top of the table.

For South African football supporters, González's performances are also interesting because of his previous experience at Kaizer Chiefs.

The striker joined Amakhosi on loan from Real Santa Cruz during the 2023/24 campaign. However, his time at Naturena was disappointing, as he struggled to deliver the goals expected from a centre-forward.

Despite making 13 appearances for the Soweto giants, González failed to register a single goal or assist. His inability to make a significant contribution in the final third meant that he did not establish himself as an important attacking option during his spell at the club.

His current performances in China present a different picture of the player who struggled in the Premier Soccer League. At 27, he appears to have found consistency and confidence in front of goal, becoming one of the important players in Nantong Zhiyun's promotion challenge.

The contrast between his unsuccessful spell at Chiefs and his impressive scoring record in China is likely to attract attention from Amakhosi supporters.

For now, González will be focused on maintaining his form and helping Nantong Zhiyun close the gap on Guangdong. With 13 goals already recorded in 16 league matches, the former Chiefs striker is enjoying one of the most productive periods of his career.

Source: IDiskiTimes