Nigerian superstar Victor Osimhen delivered a masterclass performance on Wednesday night, netting his first-ever UEFA Champions League hat-trick to inspire Galatasaray’s 3–0 victory over Dutch giants Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.
The 26-year-old forward stunned the home crowd with three goals in the first half, marking a historic milestone as the first Galatasaray player to score braces in consecutive UCL matches. His electric display earned him a third consecutive Player of the Match award, cementing his position as one of Europe’s most in-form strikers this season.
Osimhen’s goals — a sharp header in the 8th minute, a composed finish from close range in the 27th, and a clinical strike just before halftime — propelled Galatasaray to a comfortable lead they never relinquished.
With this performance, Osimhen now tops the UEFA Champions League scoring charts and officially becomes Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer in UEFA club competitions, with 25 goals across his European career.
Speaking after the match, Osimhen dedicated his achievement to “every Nigerian football fan,” saying:
“It’s a special night. I’ve worked hard for moments like this, and I’m proud to make my country and my club proud.”
Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk praised Osimhen’s contribution, calling him “a complete striker who lifts the entire team with his energy and precision.”
The victory keeps Galatasaray firmly in contention for qualification to the Champions League knockout stages, while Ajax’s hopes of progressing now hang by a thread.
Comments