Victor Osimhen's powerful header delivered yet again for Galatasaray, as the Super Eagles star rescued his side from the brink of defeat against AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday.
Despite a difficult start, where they were quickly down 1-0, a timely intervention from the Nigerian forward ensured his team escaped with a crucial 1-1 draw.
Galatasaray entered the game on the back of two wins—a narrow 3-2 triumph over Tottenham in their last Europa outing and a 1-0 victory over Bodrumspor in the Turkish Super Lig.
However, their confidence was soon shaken when AZ Alkmaar’s Sven Mijnans capitalised on a mistake by the Galatasaray keeper to score in the opening few minutes.
Victor Osimhen’s powerful header earns crucial Europa League point
As the first half drew to a close, Osimhen displayed his aerial dominance once more.
Dries Mertens’ accurate cross found the Nigerian international, who powered in a header past the goalkeeper, levelling the score just before the break.
The goal stood after a VAR review, sparking wild celebrations among the Galatasaray players.
This special striker marked Osimhen’s fourth headed goal of the season for Galatasaray, as he continues to show why he is a consistent threat in the box.
It also brings his tally to three goals in the Europa League, having previously netted twice against Tottenham.
The match wasn't without its drama. AZ Alkmaar was reduced to ten men after a second yellow card for Kees Smit in additional time, but despite a late disallowed goal for Galatasaray, the draw remained intact.
With this result, the Turkish side extended their unbeaten run to 15 matches in all competitions.
Looking ahead, Osimhen and his teammates will face Malmö next, but before that, league encounters with Eyupspor and Sivasspor await.
