Osimhen’s ability to convert early penalty to a goal secured a vital 1-0 victory in Istanbul, as Galatasaray FC stunned Liverpool FC in the Champions League.
Victor Osimhen marked his return to the UEFA Champions League in style, scoring the decisive goal that handed Galatasaray a famous 1-0 victory over Liverpool in Istanbul.
The Nigerian striker converted a penalty in the 16th minute at RAMS Park after Dominik Szoboszlai was judged to have handled the ball inside the area. The goal proved enough for the Turkish champions to claim three points against one of Europe’s most decorated sides.
Osimhen, 26, was starting his first match since August following a spell on the sidelines. He lasted 72 minutes before being replaced by Mauro Icardi, but his influence on the game remained evident. The forward was later seen urging on his teammates from the touchline as Galatasaray withstood sustained pressure from Liverpool in the second half.
Speaking after the match, Osimhen praised his side’s resilience and the backing of the home supporters.
“First of all, I want to congratulate the team,” he said in comments released by the club. “Liverpool were a very difficult opponent, and honestly, many people didn’t think we could win except for our fans here. But we fought together as a team, and this is a huge victory for Galatasaray.”
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The 2023 CAF Player of the Year admitted he is still working back to full fitness after weeks without regular training, but insisted the club’s ambition and fan support were central to his performance.
“I’ve been away from practice and only returned to training recently, but Galatasaray is the biggest team in the world for me,” he added. “The fans here always give me incredible support, and because of them, I always play better. I love Galatasaray and its fans very much.”
Osimhen’s strike, coupled with a solid defensive display, secured Galatasaray their first Champions League victory of the season and reignited hopes of advancing from the group stage.
Liverpool, who had dominated possession and created several chances, were left frustrated by a combination of wasteful finishing and determined defending from the hosts. The result underlines Galatasaray’s growing confidence under pressure, particularly in their intimidating home stadium.
The Istanbul giants will look to build on this momentum when they host Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt on October 22. Liverpool, meanwhile, face a crucial test in their next fixture as they attempt to recover quickly from the setback.
For Galatasaray and their supporters, however, the night belonged to Osimhen — a striker whose return could reshape their Champions League journey.
Africa Daily News, New York.
