​”Morale Booster” – Victor Osimhen warns Liverpool after Istanbul derby triumph

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has declared that Galatasaray are fully motivated to overcome Liverpool in their upcoming UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash, following a tough 1-0 victory over Besiktas, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The Cimbom had to dig deep to secure the win at the Tupras Stadium on Saturday. The stakes were remarkably high, as Galatasaray knew only a victory would keep them at the summit of the Süper Lig table.

For Besiktas, the match was equally critical to remain in the hunt for European qualification, but beyond the standings, the fierce Black Eagle rivalry meant local bragging rights were on the line.

​In a game decided by the finest of margins, it was Osimhen who provided the breakthrough.

In the 39th minute, the Nigerian talisman connected with a pinpoint cross from Leroy Sané, incredibly contorting his body to power a header past Ersin Destanoğlu.

​The tension escalated in the second half when Galatasaray were reduced to ten men after Sané received a second yellow card.

Despite the numerical advantage, and a relentless barrage of 24 goal attempts from Besiktas, the league leaders held firm to claim all three points. The victory moves Galatasaray to 61 points, seven clear of their closest rivals, Fenerbahçe.

​Victor Osimhen Aims to Carry Momentum into Liverpool Clash

​Galatasaray’s triumph was built on doggedness, grit, and defensive resilience—qualities they will need in abundance as they shift their focus to European giants Liverpool.

The Turkish champions host the first leg of the Round of 16 at Rams Park on Tuesday, and Osimhen is banking on their domestic momentum to fuel another upset.

​”This win will boost our morale, but we must keep our feet on the ground,” Osimhen stated.

“Liverpool are a massive team. We will be playing at home, and if we are disciplined and careful, we can perform well—even though it won’t be easy. Every match in the Champions League is a battle, and we are ready to fight.”

​While Galatasaray have already managed a victory over Liverpool earlier this season, that result was considered a major upset. Overcoming Arne Slot’s side a second time will be a formidable task.

Osimhen will be the focal point as the Turkish side looks to secure a vital first-leg cushion before heading to the return fixture at Anfield.