Galatasaray Manager Buruk Lists Qualities That Make Victor Osimhen World Class
Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has publicly praised the exceptional performance of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen following their stunning 5-2 victory over Italian giants Juventus in the first leg of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League playoff. The match took place on Tuesday, February 17, at RAMS Stadium in Istanbul, where the Turkish side delivered a dramatic comeback after trailing at halftime.
Match Recap: Galatasaray's Remarkable Comeback
The Turkish giants opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Brazilian forward Gabriel Sara, sparking celebrations among the home supporters. Juventus responded almost immediately, with Dutch midfielder Teun Koopmeiners equalizing just a minute later before adding his second goal in the 32nd minute to give the Italian side a 2-1 lead at halftime.
Four minutes into the second half, Noah Lang restored parity for Galatasaray after being set up by Barıs Yılmaz, reigniting belief inside the stadium. In the 60th minute, the Yellow-Reds went ahead again, with Davinson Sanchez finishing from Sara's assist.
Victor Osimhen played a decisive role in the closing stages. In the 75th minute, the Nigerian international assisted Lang for his second goal of the night. With just four minutes remaining, Osimhen grabbed his second assist, setting up Sacha Boey to seal an emphatic 5-2 victory for Galatasaray.
Buruk's Praise for Osimhen's World-Class Attributes
Following the match, Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk described Victor Osimhen as one of the best strikers in world football. The Turkish coach highlighted several qualities that set the Super Eagles forward apart from other players.
The 52-year-old manager stated: "He is a great player and a team player, not just a striker. He plays for his team, he scores and makes passes. Last night, those three goals started with him. He was constant pressure on Juventus defenders throughout the match."
Buruk emphasized that Osimhen has fully justified his record-breaking transfer to the club last year, noting: "It was a dream for Galatasaray last year when we brought him from Napoli. We paid 75 million euros, which is a record for the Turkish League. We spent all our money on him, and he has proven worth every euro."
The coach added that Osimhen's versatility makes him exceptional: "He is a team player who can perform in any league. His work rate, creativity, and ability to influence games make him a complete forward."
Football Fans React to Osimhen's Performance
Football enthusiasts have overwhelmingly supported Buruk's assessment of Victor Osimhen's capabilities. Social media platforms have been flooded with praise for the Nigerian striker's influence on the match.
One fan commented: "One thing most people don't realize is that Victor Osimhen has put Galatasaray's name on the map. No Turkish team had ever beaten an Italian side by scoring five goals. Victor's influence was present in all the goals, and I love how Galatasaray celebrates him."
Another supporter wrote: "He has grown tremendously. Nigerians appreciate the warm acceptance given to our players in Turkey. Osimhen isn't just finishing chances; he's creating, pressing, and leading the line like a true world-class striker."
Growing European Interest in Osimhen
The impressive performance has reportedly increased European interest in the Nigerian forward. Spanish La Liga club Atletico Madrid is said to be monitoring Osimhen with interest, potentially viewing him as an ideal partner for his compatriot Ademola Lookman.
This development makes Atletico Madrid the second Spanish club after Barcelona to show serious interest in the Super Eagles forward amid his outstanding performances in Turkey. Osimhen's combination of physical presence, technical ability, and tactical intelligence continues to attract attention from top European clubs.
The victory places Galatasaray in a strong position heading into the second leg of their Champions League playoff against Juventus, with Osimhen's contributions proving crucial to their European ambitions this season.
