Victor Osimhen: Super Eagles star gets first Galatasaray start, but denied stunning debut goal

Victor Osimhen in Gala colours.

Victor Osimhen: Super Eagles star gets first Galatasaray start, but denied stunning debut goal

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 18:44 - 14.09.2024

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen earned his first start for Galatasaray but was denied a stunning goal.

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen thought he had wasted little time making an impression for his new club Galatasaray, scoring a decisive header in his debut match against Rizespor on Saturday.

The 25-year-old Nigerian international, who joined the Turkish giants from Napoli in a high-profile transfer, showcased his aerial ability by finding the back of the net with a well-placed header to double Galatasaray's lead.

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Osimhen's goal came just 25 minutes into the match, building on an earlier header from teammate Davidson Sanchez that had opened the scoring in the 3rd minute.

The stage was set for Osimhen to make an immediate impact, with two other Nigerian players - Rizespor's Olawoyin Ibrahim and David Akintola - also featuring in the clash.

Osimhen in training |Photo Credit: X/@SSE_NGA

After a cagey start, Galatasaray quickly took control of the encounter, and Osimhen was eager to impress in his maiden outing for the club.

The transfer to Galatasaray came with high expectations for Osimhen, who has already established himself as a key figure for the Nigerian national team.

Galatasaray unveiled Nigerian Forward Victor Osimhen before the break.

The goal was however awarded to his teammate Abdülkerim Bardakci after a review.

The performance would have continued Osimhen's recent goalscoring form, as the striker had found the net for Nigeria in their AFCON 2025 qualifier against Benin Republic just days earlier.

Victor Osimhen thought he had scored a debut goal for Galatasaray.
Victor Osimhen thought he had scored a debut goal for Galatasaray.

Galatasaray will be hoping Osimhen can maintain this clinical touch in front of goal as they look to challenge for domestic and European honours this season, with the striker's debut strike a promising start to his tenure at the club.