Victor Osimhen, the striker for both Super Eagles and Galatasaray, earned the Man of the Match accolade in his team’s narrow 1-0 victory over Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League, according to Soccernet.ng.
After a month sidelined due to an ankle injury, the 26-year-old returned to Galatasaray’s starting lineup. Although he had opportunities to extend his tally, it was his crucial penalty in the 16th minute that ultimately secured the win.
Osimhen confidently placed his penalty kick straight down the center, while Liverpool’s goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, dived to his right, unable to stop the shot.
– Akin (@lacahzet) September 30, 2025
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In the second half, Osimhen made a couple more attempts on goal, both thwarted by Liverpool’s defense, before being substituted.
Did Osimhen Sustain an Injury During the Liverpool Match?
In the 70th minute, while chasing a teammate’s pass, Osimhen appeared to injure his ankle. Despite trying to continue, he was replaced by Mauro Icardi just two minutes later as a precaution.
Player of the Match: Victor Osimhen #UCL | #POTM pic.twitter.com/eIzPhyyE9v
– UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 30, 2025
Following the match, Galatasaray’s head coach Okan Buruk commented on the team’s display against the reigning Premier League champions and explained the decision to substitute Osimhen as a safety measure.
“We faced a team that applied intense pressure throughout the match,” the 51-year-old coach shared, as reported by the club’s official website.
“We executed most of our game plan effectively. While we did concede some chances, I wouldn’t classify them as major threats.
“The moment before the penalty was particularly crucial, especially the clearance from our defensive area. I mentioned earlier that this was a significant night for us.
“We prepared thoroughly for this encounter; it was a match not just for us but for our entire nation.”
“Naturally, there was some apprehension. Many wondered, ‘What if Galatasaray faces Liverpool after their performance in Alanya?’
“Or the memory of the Frankfurt score lingered in our minds. But every match has its own atmosphere and narrative.
“My players crafted the story of this game, and we all witnessed it together. It was a memorable evening.
“Osimhen experienced some fatigue and foot cramps, but we don’t believe it’s serious. Currently, there’s no negative update,” the former Galatasaray midfielder concluded.
With his goal against Liverpool, Osimhen has now netted 10 times in the UEFA Champions League, establishing himself as the top Nigerian scorer in the competition’s history.
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