Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has voiced dissatisfaction with Galatasaray’s overall performance, even after the Turkish champions secured a place in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 at the expense of Juventus.
Galatasaray progressed following an extra-time triumph in Wednesday’s second-leg playoff encounter in Turin, completing a 7-5 aggregate win. The Istanbul side had established a commanding 5-2 advantage in the first leg at home before surviving a fierce fightback in Italy.
Osimhen found the net with a crucial strike to reduce the deficit from 3-0 to 3-1 on the night, restoring his side’s aggregate lead at 6-5. A late effort from Barış Alper Yılmaz eventually confirmed qualification for the visitors.
Despite the celebratory outcome, the 27-year-old Nigerian striker delivered a frank post-match assessment, admitting the team fell short of expectations.
He credited Juventus for their intensity and organisation, noting that while qualification was secured, significant improvement would be required in the next phase of the competition. According to him, the Italian side merited the victory on the night, even though Galatasaray advanced.
Osimhen further suggested that some members of the squad struggled with the hostile atmosphere and the tempo imposed by the hosts. He explained that he attempted to rally his teammates but acknowledged that leadership on the pitch cannot rest on one player alone. He also observed that Juventus appeared more threatening at certain moments, even when reduced in number.
His candid remarks quickly stirred debate among supporters, with reactions split across social media. While some fans applauded his forthrightness and competitive mentality, others raised concerns about the possible impact of such comments within the dressing room.
Attention now turns to the Round of 16 draw, where Galatasaray could be paired with English heavyweights such as Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur. Osimhen admitted that a meeting with Liverpool would carry added significance, describing it as a potentially demanding encounter.
He maintained that whoever the opponent may be, the Turkish side must raise its level to remain competitive in Europe’s elite club competition.
