Nigerian international striker Victor Osimhen was the hero on Tuesday night as he powered Galatasaray into the final of the Turkish Cup, delivering a commanding performance that reaffirmed his status as one of Africa’s most lethal forwards.
In a thrilling semi-final clash played at the Nef Stadium in Istanbul, Osimhen scored one goal and assisted another to help Galatasaray overcome Trabzonspor with a 2-1 victory, sending the home fans into wild celebration and placing the club one step away from lifting their first Turkish Cup title since 2016.
Commanding Performance
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray on a high-profile loan deal from Napoli earlier this season, wasted no time making an impact. Right from kickoff, he displayed his trademark pace, strength, and positional awareness, constantly threatening the Trabzonspor defense.
The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Osimhen pounced on a defensive error, intercepting a loose back pass and coolly slotting the ball past the Trabzonspor goalkeeper, Ugurcan Cakir, to put Galatasaray ahead.
The goal was Osimhen’s fifth in six appearances in the Turkish Cup and underscored his importance to the team’s attacking setup.
“Victor has been a blessing to us,” Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk said after the match. “He brings leadership, hunger, and world-class quality. Tonight, he showed why he is among the top strikers in the world.”
Creating and Finishing
Not content with just scoring, Osimhen continued to lead the line with tenacity and flair. In the 62nd minute, he turned provider, beating his marker on the left wing and delivering a low cross into the box that was tapped home by teammate Kerem Aktürkoğlu to double Galatasaray’s lead.
Trabzonspor mounted a late rally and pulled one goal back in the 78th minute through Anastasios Bakasetas, but Galatasaray held on to secure the win, thanks in no small part to Osimhen’s early dominance.
He was deservedly named Man of the Match, earning a standing ovation when he was substituted in the final minutes.
Galatasaray Chasing Domestic Double
The victory sends Galatasaray into the Turkish Cup final where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between Fenerbahçe and Sivasspor. The Istanbul giants are also currently leading the Turkish Süper Lig table and are in strong contention for a domestic double this season — a feat they last achieved in 2015.
With Osimhen in inspired form, fans are optimistic that the club can clinch both trophies and return to continental prominence.
“Victor has reignited our season,” a jubilant supporter outside the stadium told reporters. “He plays with passion and gives everything for the badge. He’s quickly become a fan favorite.”
Osimhen’s Impact and Future Prospects
Osimhen’s performance comes at a crucial time in his career. After a stellar campaign with Napoli last season — where he played a key role in delivering the club’s first Serie A title in over three decades — injuries and contract uncertainties saw him make a surprise switch to Turkey in January.
His loan deal with Galatasaray includes an option to buy, and club insiders suggest that the management is already working to make the move permanent.
“We are very happy with Osimhen and we will do everything possible to keep him beyond this season,” said Galatasaray sporting director Cenk Ergün.
Meanwhile, several European clubs are said to be monitoring the Nigerian striker’s situation closely, with reports linking him to Premier League and Bundesliga sides ahead of the summer transfer window.
Nigeria Watching Closely
Osimhen’s resurgence is also good news for the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, as they prepare for upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Super Eagles coach Finidi George praised Osimhen’s recent form, calling it a “boost for the national team.” With his physicality, finishing, and experience in top leagues, Osimhen is expected to lead Nigeria’s attack in key international fixtures later this year.
“Victor is a big part of our plans. We’ve been in contact, and he knows how much we value him,” said Finidi.
Looking Ahead
With the Turkish Cup final now within reach, Osimhen has his eyes set on silverware. Speaking after the match, he thanked the fans, his teammates, and the coaching staff for believing in him.
“I came here to work, to fight, and to win. Galatasaray has given me love, and I want to repay that with trophies,” he told reporters.
The final is scheduled for next month, and Osimhen has vowed to give his all to help Galatasaray lift the title.
For now, fans can bask in the joy of a hard-fought win and the thrill of watching one of Africa’s brightest stars shine brightly on the Turkish stage.
