Nigerian superstar Victor Osimhen once again proved his worth as he inspired Galatasaray to a thrilling 3–1 comeback victory over Göztepe in the Turkish Super Lig on Sunday.
The victory keeps Galatasaray at the top of the table and extends their winning streak across all competitions, with Osimhen once again the standout performer in front of a packed home crowd in Istanbul.
Early Shock for Galatasaray
Nigeria and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo Credit: Galatasaray/ X
The visitors stunned Galatasaray early in the game when Efkan Bekiroglu found the back of the net in the 6th minute, giving Göztepe a shock lead and momentarily silencing the home fans.
But Galatasaray quickly regrouped, pushing forward with purpose and intensity as Osimhen began to threaten the Göztepe defense.
Osimhen’s Equalizer Changes Everything
Nigeria and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo Credit: Galatasaray Comms
Midway through the first half, Osimhen capitalized on a defensive mistake. A poor back pass gave him the perfect opportunity — he rounded the goalkeeper with composure and slotted home the equalizer.
That strike was his 43rd league goal for Galatasaray, drawing him level with head coach Okan Buruk on the club’s all-time scoring chart. Osimhen now ranks 18th overall in Galatasaray’s history and is only two goals away from overtaking Dutch legend Wesley Sneijder.
Turning Point Before Half-Time
The turning point came just before half-time when Göztepe defender Malcom Bokele Mputu received his second yellow card and was sent off.Playing with a one-man advantage, Galatasaray completely took control of the match after the break.
Second-Half Dominance
The hosts made their pressure count in the second half.Gabriel Sara put Galatasaray ahead in the 63rd minute with a stunning strike from close range.Moments later, Mauro Icardi sealed the result with a composed finish, securing a 3–1 victory and sending the fans wild.
The result marked Galatasaray’s third consecutive win in all competitions and kept them five points clear of second-placed Trabzonspor, while Göztepe dropped to fifth on 16 points.
Osimhen’s Form Worries Defenders Across Europe
Nigeria and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO
Osimhen’s goal against Göztepe was his ninth of the season across all competitions — including three in the Turkish Super Lig and three in the UEFA Champions League.His consistency and sharpness continue to make him one of Europe’s most feared strikers.
Boost for Nigeria Ahead of World Cup Playoffs
Victor Osimhen scored twice in a World Cup qualifier win over Rwanda. AFP
Osimhen’s incredible form is great news for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, who are set to face Gabon in next month’s crucial World Cup qualifying playoff in Morocco.
After missing out on direct qualification, Nigeria must now defeat Gabon, led by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and then face either Cameroon or DR Congo to reach the intercontinental playoffs.
At just 26 years old, Osimhen’s speed, precision, and finishing could be the key to leading Nigeria back to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
At just 26 years old, Osimhen speed, precision, and finishing could be the key to leading Nigeria back to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
WATCH THE MATCH HIGHLIGHTS BELOW 👇
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