Ex-Leeds United ace explains why Victor Osimhen bullied Juventus despite not scoring

Former Leeds United winger Mike Grella has explained why he believes Victor Osimhen delivered an outstanding performance against Juventus despite not getting on the scoresheet, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian striker played a central role as Galatasaray stunned the Italian giants 5-2 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League play-off tie on Tuesday night.

Juventus went into the match as favourites, but Galatasaray produced one of the most memorable results in their European history. The Turkish champions became the first club from Turkey to score five goals in a Champions League match, with Osimhen heavily involved throughout the game.

Although he did not score, the Super Eagles forward provided two assists and constantly troubled the Juventus defence. His relentless pressing, movement, and physical presence helped create space for teammates, allowing Galatasaray to attack with speed and confidence.

Juventus struggled to deal with the intensity of the visitors and conceded five goals in a Champions League match for the first time in their history.

Grella explains Victor Osimhen’s impact

Speaking on CBS Sports via Le Marca Spors, Grella said Osimhen’s influence went far beyond goals, insisting the striker’s energy and work rate changed the entire rhythm of the match.

Grella also suggested Juventus lacked players with Osimhen’s quality and intensity, which ultimately exposed the gap between the two sides on the night.

“Juventus couldn’t reach that level and today they got exposed by a very good Galatasaray team,” Grella said.

“A team that has everything, a team with every tool. A centre-forward who is one of the best in the world, hard-working, with an unbelievable work rate. They scored five goals, he didn’t score any of those goals… But he was involved in almost all of them because he occupies the centre-backs so much.

“Galatasaray put them in a game that the tempo was so high, aggressive game, physical game and Juventus couldn’t cope. Because they don’t have Juventus-calibre players.”

Galatasaray now hold a strong advantage ahead of the return leg in Turin next Wednesday. Avoiding a heavy defeat will send them into the Round of 16.

Osimhen’s European campaign continues to impress, with the Nigerian striker now recording six goals and two assists in seven Champions League appearances this season.