Victor Osimhen sent a resounding message to Rwanda and Zimbabwe, netting a stunning hat-trick in Galatasaray’s 4-0 demolition of Antalyaspor.
His first for the Turkish giants secured consecutive Super Lig victories and reinforced his readiness for international duty.
Osimhen’s clinical display saw him score in the 30th, 45+3rd, and 52nd minutes. Notably, he unselfishly allowed Alvaro Morata to take a penalty, helping the Spaniard break his goal drought.
The 2023 CAF Men’s Player of the Year now leads the Super Lig scoring charts with 20 goals, surpassing Krzysztof Piatek’s 18.
Beyond goals, Osimhen’s efficiency stands out. He boasts 20 goals from an expected goals (xG) tally of 16.10, proving his lethal finishing. He also tops the league in goal contributions, tallying 24 (20 goals, 4 assists).
Osimhen’s numbers boost Nigeria’s World Cup hopes
In 68 minutes, Osimhen converted all three of his shots on target, while one went wide and another was blocked. He hit the woodwork once, recorded an xG of 1.77, and had 21 touches.
He completed 5 of 10 passes, attempted an unsuccessful cross, won 1 of 3 ground duels, and 3 of 5 aerial duels. He did not register assists, key passes, or successful dribbles.
Now, Osimhen turns his attention to Nigeria's crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers. His return is timely, as the Super Eagles have struggled in his absence.
With draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe under Jose Peseiro, followed by a loss to Benin and a draw with South Africa under Finidi George, Nigeria's campaign is in dire need of revitalization.
Osimhen, with his impressive international record of 23 goals and 11 assists in 39 appearances, is seen as the catalyst for change. Nigeria faces Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 and Zimbabwe at home on March 25. Securing maximum points is imperative to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
