By Olaitan Ibrahim
In a thrilling encounter on Monday, Nigerian international Victor Osimhen delivered a sensational performance, scoring twice to lead Galatasaray to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Rizespor.
The match saw Osimhen’s first-half goal in the 47th minute, a powerful header following a precise cross from Przemyslaw Frankowski, giving Galatasaray an early lead.
Rizespor equalised shortly after the break, with Ali Sowe setting up Babajide David Akintola to slot home the equaliser in the 54th minute.
However, it was Osimhen who proved to be the match-winner.
In the 86th minute, he once again rose to the occasion, meeting a Gabriel Sara corner with a well-timed header that bounced off the right post and into the net, securing the three points for the visitors.
Despite a late push from Rizespor, including a series of set-piece opportunities, Galatasaray held firm in defence, with goalkeeper Fernando Muslera making crucial saves to maintain their lead.
The final whistle blew in the 97th minute, ensuring that Osimhen’s brace was enough to clinch all three points.
Galatasaray’s win consolidates their top position on the Turkish league.
Osimhen’s clinical finishing reaffirmed his status as one of the league’s top strikers and a key figure in Galatasaray’s title ambitions.