‘We want to do something extraordinary’ – Osimhen

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen delivered a night to remember as Galatasaray booked their place in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 after a dramatic playoff clash against Juventus.

Despite falling 3-2 on the night in Turin, Galatasaray progressed 7-5 on aggregate, with Osimhen’s decisive extra-time goal silencing the home crowd and sparking wild celebrations among the travelling Turkish supporters.

Playing at the Allianz Stadium, Juventus mounted a fierce response after Galatasaray’s commanding first-leg display. The Italian side’s 3-2 victory on the night levelled the tie and forced extra time in a pulsating encounter.

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However, when it mattered most, Osimhen rose to the occasion. The forward struck in extra time to restore Galatasaray’s aggregate advantage. Baris Yilmaz then added a late goal to seal the 7-5 triumph, ensuring the Turkish giants advanced to the knockout stage.

The result means Galatasaray remain the only Turkish club in this season’s Champions League round of 16.

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Speaking after the match, Osimhen made clear that Galatasaray’s ambitions extend beyond merely reaching the knockout rounds.

“We want to make a statement in the Champions League. We want to do something extraordinary,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of representing Turkish football on Europe’s biggest stage.

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He added, “To pass a message on that there is a team in Turkey that can put up a fight with the big dogs in the competition. And we are the only team from Turkey. So we are happy that we’ve got into the next round.”