Beşiktaş legend Nihat Kahveci has shared his admiration for Victor Osimhen following his debut for Galatasaray in their 5-0 win over Çaykur Rizespor at RAMS Park on Saturday.
With Mauro Icardi sidelined due to injury, head coach Okan Buruk had to decide between Osimhen and Michy Batshuayi for the starting role. Osimhen got the nod and delivered a notable performance despite his limited game time since May 2024.
Osimhen was heavily involved throughout the match, nearly scoring and clashing with Rizespor's centre-back Husniddin Alikulov, who had to be substituted after suffering a concussion.
Kahveci was particularly impressed with Osimhen’s performance, highlighting his athleticism and defensive contributions.
Osimhen’s athleticism stands out
“I didn't see Osimhen as lacking in physicality. He showed what an athletic player he is. I saw his jumping advantage in all the cut balls,” Kahveci said, as quoted by Yenisafak. “Goals were expected from Osimhen. Batshuayi gave him a very nice pass, I think he hit the ball correctly with the inside of his foot and the goalkeeper saved it.”
Though Osimhen didn’t get on the scoresheet, Kahveci admired his off-the-ball work, particularly his defensive involvement. “On the defensive side of things, I really liked his directing the ball to the goalkeeper and defenders when it came to him, and his defensive role and struggle in those areas when the ball was in Rizespor,” Kahveci added.
Galatasaray fans will be eager to see how Osimhen complements Icardi, the reigning Süper Lig top scorer, once he returns from injury. Buruk's tactical decisions with both forwards will be closely watched as the season progresses.
