By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Victor Osimhen fired Galatasaray to a famous 1-0 victory over Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night, with the Nigerian striker’s early penalty condemning the Reds to back-to-back defeats.
The Super Eagles forward held his nerve from 12 yards after Baris Alper Yilmaz drew a foul from Dominik Szoboszlai inside the box, coolly converting in the 16th minute to hand the Turkish champions the advantage in front of a raucous home crowd in Istanbul.
Osimhen the Decisive Factor
Osimhen’s goal, his second in this season’s Champions League, ultimately proved the difference in a game where Galatasaray capitalised on Liverpool’s sluggish form. The 25-year-old forward led the line with his trademark energy and physicality, unsettling the visitors’ backline and providing a reliable outlet whenever the hosts surged forward.
Liverpool, by contrast, looked blunt in attack and failed to register a goal for the first time this season. The visitors struggled to recover from the setback of Osimhen’s opener and rarely threatened Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.
Liverpool’s Struggles Continue
The defeat followed Liverpool’s 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace at the weekend, compounding the pressure on Arne Slot. His team appeared disjointed both defensively and offensively, with chances at a premium despite the introductions of Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak in the second half.
The Reds thought they had a lifeline late on when Ibrahima Konaté went down in the area, but VAR overturned the penalty decision, sealing a night of frustration for the Premier League side.
Galatasaray’s Resurgence
For Galatasaray, the result was a powerful response to their heavy 5-1 defeat against Eintracht Frankfurt in their opening Champions League fixture. With Osimhen leading the charge, the Istanbul club demonstrated greater resilience and tactical discipline to claim a vital three points.
The Nigerian forward was hailed by home supporters at the final whistle, his match-winning contribution reaffirming his status as one of Europe’s most feared strikers.
Though, there was worry for the striker after being replaced by Mauro Icardi in the 71st minute. He was also awarded Man of the Match.
