Osimhen, Icardi score as Galatasaray extend league lead

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen made a significant impact in Galatasaray’s 3-0 victory over Antalyaspor on Saturday.

After being sidelined by injury, Osimhen was substituted for Yunus Akgün in the 78th minute to roaring applause from the fans.

Galatasaray had already taken control of the game thanks to Mauro Icardi, who netted twice, securing his brace earlier in the match.

The prolific on-loan striker from Napoli had been injured during a dramatic 3-3 draw against Kasimpasa, where the Nigerian found the net twice in eight minutes, marking a return to form after a brief goal drought.

Last Saturday, PUNCH Online reported that Osimhen had begun solo training as he worked towards recovery.

During the international break, Galatasaray released a 1.52-second video on Saturday evening, showing Osimhen in a solo training session, offering hope for his return.

A post on the club’s official X (formerly Twitter) account read: “Victor Osimhen worked separately from the team within the scope of a special programme prepared for him.”

Meanwhile, Osimhen wasted no time proving his worth, sealing Galatasaray’s dominance with a late goal just moments before the final whistle in the 92nd minute.

The striker scored a nice overhead scissors kick from a free kick from Hakim Ziyech.

His comeback added a thrilling climax to the game, as the Nigerian striker showed no signs of rust, immediately regaining his sharp form.

Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk expressed his delight with the player’s return.

This goal, in his first match back, solidified Osimhen’s place as a key player for Galatasaray, much to the delight of supporters.

This victory took Galatasaray to 25 points from nine games played, topping the league table.

PUNCH Online reports that the club will host Istanbul rivals Besiktas in their next league game on Monday, 28th October.

They will, however, host IF Elfsborg on Wednesday in the Europa League.