Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen is brimming with confidence ahead of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 clash against Liverpool, following a dramatic Istanbul derby victory over Besiktas on Saturday.
The Nigerian forward scored the lone goal in a 1-0 triumph, ending Besiktas’ 18-match unbeaten run and extending Galatasaray’s lead over Fenerbahce to seven points in the Super Lig title race.
Osimhen’s first-half header marked his 11th league goal of the season and extended his goal contribution streak to eight consecutive league matches eight goals and four assists matching the longest streak of his professional career, previously set during his Napoli spell in early 2023.
Reflecting on the upcoming tie with Liverpool, Osimhen exuded confidence. “It’s beautiful to play this type of team in the Champions League. Of course, it gives us some satisfaction knowing that we are playing one of the best teams in the world.
But we are also one of the best teams,” he said via Galatasaray’s YouTube channel.
He added: “With the way we played today, even after going a man down, we showed great qualities.
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We will carry this momentum into the next Champions League game and give everything. I think we also have an edge in front of our fans. Their support will go a long way.”
Osimhen has been a standout performer for Galatasaray in Europe this season, scoring seven goals and providing two assists in eight Champions League appearances.
He also netted the decisive goal in Galatasaray’s 1-0 group stage victory over Liverpool and played a pivotal role in their win against Juventus.
“I spoke with the president when I arrived, and we agreed that we want to make a statement in the Champions League.
We’ve dominated the Turkish league for years, but now we want to show that we can compete with the best teams in Europe,” Osimhen said.
Meanwhile, European giants are taking notice. Barcelona reportedly admire Osimhen as a potential target should Robert Lewandowski leave this summer, valuing his pace, power, and clinical finishing. Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Chelsea are also reportedly monitoring the Nigerian forward, who joined Galatasaray for a record transfer fee last summer and has quickly become a fan favorite in Turkey.
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