- Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen returned to the starting XI to help Galatasaray defeat Fenerbahçe 3-1
- The win ended Fenerbahçe's 32-game unbeaten run in the Turkish Super Lig
- Osimhen now has two assists in his first two matches for Galatasaray
Super Eagles and on-loan Napoli forward Victor Osimhen had several moments of brilliance in Galatasaray's impressive 3-1 win over bitter rivals Fenerbahçe in the Intercontinental Derby, ending the home side’s 32-match unbeaten streak in the Super Lig.
Concerns over his form were quickly laid to rest when he delivered a masterclass performance at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium on Saturday night, September 21, after sitting out the midweek game against Gaziantep F.K.
Entrusted to spearhead the attacking frontline, Osimhen led Galatasaray’s offensive line ahead of more experienced players like Mauro Icardi and Michy Batshuayi. His attacking synergy with Dries Mertens, a former Napoli teammate, could not have gone unnoticed as they per time dismantled Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe defence.
Galatasaray took an early lead in the 20th minute, thanks to an own goal by Dominik Livakovic. Just eight minutes later, Osimhen expertly controlled the ball with his chest in the box, laying it off for Mertens to tap in, doubling the visitors’ advantage.
Despite Fenerbahçe’s efforts to regain control, Galatasaray maintained their two-goal lead heading into halftime. They increased their lead to 3-0 early in the second half when Gabriel Sara found the net, assisted by Lucas Torreira, putting the game out of reach for the “homeowners.”
Edin Džeko managed to reduce the deficit in the 63rd minute, converting a penalty for Fenerbahçe, but it was too little, too late to amount to anything tangible compared to the assault already done. Osimhen, along with his Galatasaray teammates, kept their composure to see out the match and claim a crucial three points.
Since joining Galatasaray from Napoli on loan, Osimhen has been in spectacular form, with two assists in his first two matches for the Turkish giants. He also registered four shots on goal in the derby, with one on target, as he continues to settle into life in Istanbul.
This performance marked the first time Osimhen has recorded assists in back-to-back games since September 2019, when he played for Lille. His next challenge will come in the UEFA Europa League, where Galatasaray face Greek side PAOK on Thursday.
Notably, Super Eagles fullback Bright Osayi-Samuel was unavailable for Fenerbahçe, still sidelined with injury.
Despite brilliant debut, here’s why Osimhen is not eligible for Galatasaray’s next game
Previously, TheRadar reported that 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.
