Victor Osimhen, returning from a 43-day injury layoff, played a pivotal role in Napoli’s thrilling 2-1 victory over Atalanta, orchestrating the match-winning goal.
Osimhen’s presence on the pitch provided Napoli with a much-needed attacking threat, and his ability to create scoring opportunities was evident since his introduction in the second half.
Napoli took the lead through Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the 44th minute, but Atalanta responded through Ademola Lookman’s well-taken header in the 53rd minute. Osimhen’s introduction in the 64th minute proved a turning point, as he injected a spark of creativity into Napoli’s attack.
Osimhen’s assist for the winning goal came in the 79th minute, finding Eljif Elmas after a Marco Carnesecchi howler due to trying to play from the back allowing the Algerian midfielder to slot home the decisive goal from close range. The victory was crucial for Napoli, as it allowed them to close the gap on the top teams in the league.
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A notable difference with the Nigerian striker was that he had discarded his trademark protective facemask, which he had been wearing since a gruesome collision with Milan Škriniar during Napoli’s visit to Inter in October 2021.
Despite being out of action for six weeks, Osimhen has maintained his impressive goal-scoring form, having netted six goals and provided two assists for Napoli in all competitions this season.
