Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s 3-1 victory over rivals Fenerbahçe in the Intercontinental Derby on Saturday evening.
Osimhen, starting ahead of strikers Mauro Icardi and Michy Batshuayi, displayed excellent teamwork with former Napoli teammate Dries Mertens, assisting in the build-up to Galatasaray’s second goal.
The match opened with Galatasaray taking the lead in the 20th minute through an own goal by Fenerbahçe’s Dominik Livakovic. Just eight minutes later, Osimhen brilliantly controlled the ball with his chest in the penalty box, setting up Mertens, who slotted it past Livakovic to make it 2-0.
Despite Fenerbahçe’s efforts, Galatasaray maintained their lead heading into halftime.
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In the second half, Galatasaray extended their advantage in the 59th minute when Gabriel Sara found the back of the net, assisted by Lucas Torreira. Fenerbahçe responded four minutes later with a penalty from Edin Dzeko, reducing the deficit to 3-1. However, Osimhen and his team held firm, securing the derby victory.
This match marks the second consecutive game where Osimhen has provided an assist, the first time he’s achieved this since September 2019 during his stint with Lille. He also assisted in Galatasaray’s 5-0 win over Rizespor earlier in the season.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year, on loan from Napoli, now looks ahead to Galatasaray’s upcoming UEFA Europa League clash against PAOK, where he’ll aim for his first goal with the Turkish giants.
Fenerbahçe, meanwhile, were without Nigerian fullback Bright Osayi-Samuel, who is still recovering from an injury.
