Victor Osimhen delivered a commanding performance on Sunday afternoon, netting twice as Galatasaray overpowered Kayserispor 5-1 in a dominant Trendyol Süper Lig encounter at the Kadir Has Stadium.
Returning to the starting lineup for the first time since recovering from an injury, the Nigerian striker proved his worth with a stellar display, reminding fans of his exceptional talents just days after narrowly losing the African Footballer of the Year title to compatriot Ademola Lookman.
Early Lead and Quick Response
The match began with a flurry of action. In just the fourth minute, Galatasaray was awarded a penalty after a Kayserispor defender was penalized for handball. Osimhen stepped up confidently and converted the spot-kick with ease, putting the visitors in front.
Kayserispor, however, responded swiftly. Stephane Bahoken capitalized on Kartal Yilmaz’s perfectly delivered corner, rising above the Galatasaray defense to head the ball into the net, leveling the match at 1-1.
Galatasaray’s Resurgence
Galatasaray regained control before halftime through a moment of brilliance initiated by Osimhen. The forward received a pass from Yunus Akgün and cleverly set up Dries Mertens for a shot that was initially saved by the Kayserispor goalkeeper.
Barış Alper Yılmaz reacted quickest, slotting the rebound into the back of the net to restore Galatasaray’s lead.
The momentum carried into the second half as Akgün extended the lead with a stunning strike from outside the box. His low, powerful shot found the bottom left corner, leaving the Kayserispor goalkeeper with no chance.
Osimhen’s Brilliance
Osimhen struck again in the 71st minute, showcasing his trademark skill and composure. A well-timed pass from Akgün found the Nigerian striker in space, and he executed a delicate chip over the onrushing goalkeeper, securing his second goal of the match.
Substituted in the 86th minute for Metehan Baltaci, Osimhen left the field to a standing ovation from Galatasaray supporters who had witnessed a masterclass in forward play.
Late Flourish
The visitors capped off their emphatic win in the 89th minute when Yilmaz added a fifth goal, coolly finishing a well-constructed team move to complete the rout.
League Race Heats Up
Osimhen’s brace brings his league tally to nine goals, placing him just one behind the league’s top scorers, Krzysztof Piątek and Simon Banza. His contributions have been pivotal in Galatasaray’s quest to remain title contenders this season.
Sunday’s commanding performance was a clear signal of intent from both Osimhen and Galatasaray. As the Süper Lig campaign unfolds, the Nigerian forward’s form will be a critical factor in the team’s pursuit of glory.
Galatasaray fans will hope that Osimhen’s return to fitness and form marks the beginning of a fruitful period for their star striker and the team as a whole.
