Victor Osimhen breaks 10-year record, leads Galatasaray to victory over Samsunspor
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray celebrates his team's victory at the end of the Super Lig match against Samsunspor at RAMS Park in Istanbul, Türkiye, November 10, 2024. (AA Photo)
Galatasaray clinched a 3-2 win against Samsunspor in the 12th week of the Turkish Super Lig at RAMS Park, with Victor Osimhen playing a decisive role.
Osimhen’s outstanding performance brought Galatasaray its fourth consecutive win and secured its position at the top of the league with 31 points.
His contributions also marked a historic milestone, making him the first player in 10 years to score or assist in each of his first six Super Lig games – a record last set in the 2014/15 season.
Victor Osimhen scores 2 goals, leads Galatasaray to 3-2 win
Victor Osimhen started strong and put Galatasaray ahead just three minutes into the game, heading in a well-placed cross from Lucas Torreira. Samsunspor answered with an equalizer through Olivier Ntcham, who scored on a penalty in the 50th minute.
Five minutes later, Osimhen struck again, taking advantage of a fumble by Samsunspor’s goalkeeper Okan Kocuk and sending another header into the net.
This goal restored Galatasaray’s lead. In the 85th minute, Michy Batshuayi scored, securing Galatasaray’s victory and closing the game at 3-2.
Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk, reflecting on the match, appreciated his team’s fast start and their determination, despite fatigue from the recent Europa League game against Tottenham.
“We took the lead early, which helped us push forward, but the effects of the Tottenham match were visible in some players,” Buruk commented. He emphasized the need to stay focused, especially given the high-level games they have faced.
Victor Osimhen honors injured Mauro Icardi with heartfelt gesture and message
Osimhen paid tribute to Mauro Icardi, who recently suffered a season-ending injury, by lifting Icardi’s jersey after his first goal. To show further respect, the stadium played “Askin Olayim,” a song that has become associated with Icardi.
Osimhen dedicated his goals to Icardi, saying, “He is a strong leader for us, and I know he’ll come back even stronger.” Icardi, who watched from the stands, waved to acknowledge Osimhen and the fans.
Osimhen’s consistent performances, leadership continue to drive Galatasaray’s success
Victor Osimhen has quickly become a crucial figure for Galatasaray. His goal tally reached eight in nine games, making him a vital offensive asset for the team.
Scoring in each of his last four Super Lig games, he has not only boosted his record but also added to Galatasaray’s momentum.
Turkish sports commentator Nihat Kahveci noted Osimhen’s ability to find the net, jokingly saying, “They should check his mask to see if it’s magnetic – he just draws the ball in.”
Samsunspor’s head coach Thomas Reis acknowledged Osimhen’s strength, describing him as “an exceptional player who knows how to take advantage of every chance.” Reis, who questioned some refereeing calls, also expressed pride in his team’s resilience and effort in facing the league’s top club.
Galatasaray extends its unbeaten run to 13 matches, maintaining momentum in Super Lig and European competitions
With this win, Galatasaray marked its 13th consecutive match without a loss – a streak that began after their defeat by Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League play-off.
Their steady victories in both league and European matches have strengthened Galatasaray’s dominance this season.
Osimhen‘s influence and the team’s unity under Buruk’s leadership are keeping Galatasaray focused on its goals.
With a fifth league title and a strong European campaign on their radar, Galatasaray is set to return after the international break, aiming to sustain its undefeated record and widen its lead.
