Nigeria international Victor Osimhen continued his impressive start to the season with another goal for Galatasaray, but his night ended prematurely after he suffered an injury scare in his side’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Başakşehir, Trybal News reports.
Osimhen put Galatasaray ahead in the 17th minute with a powerful effort from outside the box, taking his tally to six goals in four league appearances this season.
The Nigerian striker’s effort struck the crossbar and bounced down onto the goal line before returning into play. The goal was initially not awarded, but a VAR review confirmed that the ball had crossed the line, handing Galatasaray the lead.
However, Osimhen’s evening was cut short in the 33rd minute after he appeared to suffer an injury around his groin area.
The 27-year-old was unable to continue and was replaced by Barış Alper Yılmaz, with the striker going straight to the bench after his withdrawal.
The extent of the injury remains unclear, with Galatasaray’s medical team expected to conduct further examinations before determining the severity of the problem.
According to beIN Sports reporter Nezih Akşener, Osimhen was asked at halftime whether the injury was serious and replied: “I don’t know.”
The development will be a major concern for Nigeria, with the Super Eagles set to begin their qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations later this month.
Nigeria will host Madagascar in Uyo on September 23 before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later, leaving Osimhen facing a race against time to recover in time for the two qualifiers.
Galatasaray survive late drama
Despite losing their leading striker in the first half, Galatasaray maintained their advantage until halftime.
Başakşehir came out strongly after the break and levelled in the 66th minute through Eldor Shomurodov, who converted from the penalty spot.
Galatasaray restored their lead five minutes later through Lucas Torreira, but the hosts responded again when Davinson Sánchez scored an own goal to make it 2-2.
The drama intensified late in the game when Başakşehir were reduced to 10 men following Umut Bozok’s dismissal.
Galatasaray appeared to have found a third goal through Sánchez in the 83rd minute, but the effort was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
The visitors continued to push for the winner and were finally rewarded in the 90th minute when Gabriel Sara struck to seal a thrilling 3-2 victory.
The result keeps Galatasaray unbeaten at the start of the campaign, but the focus will now turn to Osimhen’s medical assessment.
With the Super Eagles’ AFCON qualifying campaign just weeks away, Nigeria will hope the prolific striker’s injury proves minor and does not prevent him from leading the attack against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
