- Victor Osimhen made a memorable debut for Galatasaray, recording a season-high seven shots on goal
- The Nigerian will miss Tuesday’s clash against Gaziantep FK due to ineligibility from late registration
- Osimhen completed 8 of 9 passes, with two leading to goal-scoring chances, coupled with a 73% passing accuracy
Nigerian superstar Victor Osimhen wasted no time stamping his authority on Turkish football, making an electric debut for Galatasaray in their 5-0 victory over Rizespor. The Nigerian star led the line brilliantly, registering a season-high seven shots on target and contributing an assist in a dominant display by the reigning Turkish champions.
Having seen potential moves to Chelsea and Al Ahly collapse on deadline day, Osimhen opted for the RAMS Park with a point to prove. His assist helped pave the way for goals from teammates Davinson Sánchez, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Gabriel Sara, Dries Mertens, and Baris Yılmaz. In just one game, Osimhen gave fans a taste of his immense potential.
Coach Okan Buruk had no hesitation in starting Osimhen, and the forward's influence was clear from the onset. He tormented the Rizespor backline with his movement, pace and physicality.
In the first half, he almost found the net with a powerful header, which ultimately turned into an assist when Abdülkerim Bardakcı capitalised on it through a contact. It was a key moment in a match where Osimhen was at the heart of everything positive for Galatasaray.
Not only was Osimhen involved in key attacking moments, but he was also superb in his link-up play, known for his ability to go deep on the pitch to get balls and work with his team-mate instead of waiting for shots to come at him.
He completed 8 out of 9 passes, including two key passes that led directly to chances. His duel stats were equally impressive, winning three out of four aerial contests and matching that success on the ground. With 100% dribble success, Osimhen gave a complete performance on his debut.
Despite missing a clear chance to score, Osimhen’s debut could hardly have gone better. His physicality, playmaking, and tactical awareness were on full display.
The reigning CAF Player of the Year looks ready to lead Galatasaray’s attack as they aim to defend their title this season.
However, due to Turkish Football Federation (TFF) regulations, Osimhen will miss Galatasaray’s rescheduled Matchday 3 fixture against Gaziantep FK, today September 17. His transfer, completed late in the window, meant he was not eligible for the original Matchday 3 registration.
Despite this setback, Galatasaray fans can’t wait for Osimhen’s next appearance which will be against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe SK.
Osimhen eyes Odegbami’s record in Super Eagles’ game against Rwanda
Previously, TheRadar reported that Victor Osimhen added another chapter to his remarkable career, becoming Nigeria’s third-highest goal scorer by netting his 22nd goal in a 3-0 win against Benin Republic on Saturday, September 7.
Now trailing only Rashidi Yekini and Segun Odegbami, Osimhen is on the path to etching his legacy among the legends of Nigerian football. Yekini, who scored 37 goals in 58 matches, set a high standard for future strikers, but Osimhen is determined to keep climbing up the score chart.
