As was to be expected, Victor Osimhen made an immediate impression in the Turkish Super Lig, setting a record with seven shots on goal in Galatasaray’s 5-0 victory over Rizespor on Saturday.
Recovering from the disappointment of his failed moves to Chelsea and Ah Ahly on the deadline day of the summer window, the 25-year-old showed he had a lot of guts. He made a big impression on his first game with the Yellow-Reds, helping them to a decisive victory in Game Week 5 at RAMS Park in Istanbul, where Davinson Sánchez, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Gabriel Sara, Dries Mertens, and Baris Yılmaz all found the net.
Osimhen quickly proved his worth as head coach Okan Buruk thrust him into the starting lineup. Throughout the whole game, the Rizespor defense was plagued by his physical presence and deft movement.
In the first half, he headed a cross with a strong flip to go close to scoring. But Abdülkerim Bardakcı, his teammate, was the one who added the finishing touch, converting Osimhen’s goal-bound attempt into an assist.
Apart from the help, Osimhen gave a dominant performance all around. With two of the nine passes resulting in scoring opportunities, he had a 73% passing efficiency. He completed eight of the nine passes he tried.
Despite Rizespor’s defense holding firm, the Nigerian forward showed his determination to attack with one shot on goal, two off target, and four blocked efforts.
The former Lille player shown effectiveness in duels as well, taking the lead in three of the four air clashes and three of the four ground fights. His versatility as a forward was demonstrated by his ability to contest both on the ground and in the air. He also demonstrated his flair and technique by finishing all of his dribbling efforts with success.
Even though Osimhen squandered a great opportunity to score, his debut showed Galatasaray exactly what he is capable of in the long term. Throughout his whole ninety minutes on the field, the current CAF Player of the Year showed off his physical strength, technical proficiency, and ability to create opportunities for plays.
Osimhen’s debut shows that he has what it takes to spearhead Galatasaray’s assault this season as the team looks to defend its championship.
Osimhen’s impressive debut performance will surely raise Galatasaray’s expectations as the season goes on, and supporters will be anxiously expecting his first goal in Turkish football.
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