Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen made history on Wednesday night as he netted his first-ever UEFA Champions League hat-trick, leading Galatasaray to a 3-0 victory over Dutch side Ajax.
The Super Eagles striker opened the scoring in the 59th minute with a powerful header before doubling the lead from the penalty spot in the 66th minute. He sealed his remarkable performance 12 minutes later with another expertly taken penalty, completing a perfect hat-trick that sent the home fans into jubilation in Istanbul.
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray earlier this season, has been in sensational form in Europe. Just two weeks ago, he bagged a brace in their 3-1 win over Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt.
With this latest performance, the 26-year-old has now scored an incredible 12 goals in his last eight European appearances for the Turkish champions, cementing his status as one of the most lethal forwards in the Champions League this season.
Wednesday’s win marked Galatasaray’s third consecutive victory in the competition, having earlier beaten Liverpool 2-1 on matchday three — a match in which Osimhen also scored the decisive goal.
According to a 9am News report, the Nigerian international’s commanding form has not only elevated Galatasaray’s European ambitions but also strengthened his reputation as one of Africa’s finest exports in world football.
Football analysts have described Osimhen’s recent run as “unstoppable,” with many tipping him as a strong contender for the UEFA Champions League Golden Boot this season.
