Victor Osimhen returned from injury on Friday as Galatasaray defeated Kasımpaşa 3-1 in the Turkish Süper Lig. The Nigerian striker came off the bench and assisted Mario Lemina’s stoppage-time goal at Rams Park, Bold Sports reports.
The 27-year-old had recorded six goals and two assists in his opening four league appearances this season. However, a groin injury in his thigh interrupted his impressive start and kept him out for more than a month. His return now gives Galatasaray a significant attacking boost ahead of their UEFA Champions League meeting with Barcelona.
Osimhen returns after injury
Osimhen suffered the injury on September 4 during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over İstanbul Başakşehir. He scored in that match before leaving the pitch in the 33rd minute due to the injury.
The injury forced Osimhen to miss four matches, including three competitive fixtures against Kocaelispor, Trabzonspor and Sporting CP, as well as a friendly against Pendikspor.
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He also missed Nigeria’s recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. Galatasaray’s medical team had advised against his participation while he continued his recovery.
The striker resumed training before Friday’s fixture. However, Galatasaray managed his return by naming him among the substitutes.
Nigerian striker makes an immediate impact
Galatasaray entered the contest looking to strengthen their position at the top of the Turkish Süper Lig.
Abdülkerim Bardakcı opened the scoring in the 45th minute. However, Kasımpaşa restored parity through Jesurun Rak-Sakyi in the 68th minute.
Osimhen entered the game in the 77th minute alongside Leroy Sané. His introduction added another attacking option as the hosts searched for a decisive goal.
Osimhen contributed to Galatasaray’s attacking efforts after coming on. He also had a scoring opportunity shortly afterwards. However, goalkeeper Andreas Gianniotis denied his attempt.
Barış Alper Yılmaz eventually restored Galatasaray’s lead in the 90th minute. The hosts then sealed the victory deep into stoppage time.
In the 96th minute, Osimhen assisted Lemina, who scored to make it 3-1.
Barcelona clash next for Galatasaray
The victory lifted Galatasaray to the top of the Turkish Süper Lig standings. The defending champions collected 16 points from seven matches, moving three points clear of Amedspor.
Osimhen’s return also comes at an important time for the Turkish giants. They will welcome Barcelona for a UEFA Champions League fixture on Tuesday.
His appearance against Kasımpaşa gives the club an opportunity to assess his match fitness before the European encounter.
With six league goals and two assists already to his name this season before the injury, Osimhen remains a key attacking figure for Galatasaray.
His late contribution on Friday offered further encouragement as the club prepares for its next major test.
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