“My teammates were timid” – Victor Osimhen knocks Galatasaray’s performance in UCL win at Juventus

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has expressed his frustration with Galatasaray’s performance despite the club securing a spot in the next round of the UEFA Champions League, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The Cimbom survived a massive scare in Turin on Wednesday, falling to a 3-2 defeat against Juventus in the second leg of their Champions League knockout playoff.

Having secured a dominant 5-2 win in the first leg in Istanbul, Galatasaray entered the match as heavy favorites to advance.

​However, the Turkish giants collapsed under pressure, conceding three goals within 90 minutes and forcing the tie into extra time.

It was then that Osimhen rose to the occasion, delivering a crucial goal before Baris Alper Yilmaz added another to bring the score to 3-2. The result ensured Galatasaray progressed with a 7-5 aggregate victory.

​This victory marks a historic moment for Turkish football. It is the first time a Super Lig club has qualified for the Round of 16 of Europe’s elite competition since 2014.

​”We Have a Lot to Improve” — Victor Osimhen Not Satisfied

​Victor Osimhen gave everything on the night—tracking back to defend and leading the line with intensity. His efforts earned him the Man of the Match award, but the Super Eagles striker was far from celebratory during his post-match interview.

Man of the match award for the 4th time this season for Victor Osimhen.

Magician 🔥🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/zmXDlWqBFW

— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) February 25, 2026

​Speaking to CBS Golazo, Osimhen admitted that while he was pleased with the qualification, the team’s approach at the Allianz Stadium left him disappointed.

​”If I have to be honest with you, I am disappointed with the performance of the team,” Osimhen told CBS Sport Golazo.

“Kudos to Juventus for the display they put up. We qualified, but we have a lot to improve if we are to face the big dogs next.

​”I was really psyched up; I tried to prepare my teammates before we stepped out there. I knew it would be difficult to come to Turin because I’ve played here before. But some of my teammates were timid. I tried to motivate them, but I cannot do it alone.

​”Some were scared by the crowd and Juventus’ play. I know this team; when you sit back and let them come at you, they will do damage. They even played better with a red card than when they had 11 men. We have a lot to improve on.”

Now that Galatasaray has survived the Juventus test, they must wait until the draw to confirm their Round of 16 opponent, with Liverpool and Tottenham among the potential heavyweights.

​Osimhen will be hoping his teammates take his wake-up call seriously as he remains fit and ready to lead the charge from the front.