Victor Osimhen continued his impressive form in the UEFA Champions League, registering an assist as Galatasaray S.K. defeated Liverpool F.C. 1–0 in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie at RAMS Park.
The Super Eagles Striker played a key role in the decisive moment of the encounter, helping the Turkish giants secure a slender advantage ahead of the return leg in England.
Galatasaray made a bright start to the match and took the lead in the sixth minute. A corner delivered by Gabriel Sara found Osimhen, whose header directed the ball into the danger area where Mario Lemina reacted quickly to nod home from close range.
Osimhen nearly doubled the lead moments later but failed to guide his header on target after connecting with a cross from Ismail Jakobs.
Liverpool created chances in search of an equaliser but struggled to break down Galatasaray’s defence. The hosts thought they had extended their advantage in the 62nd minute when Osimhen found the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
The visitors also had opportunities to get back into the match, with Hugo Ekitiké coming close in the 66th minute, only to be denied by goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır.
Liverpool later had the ball in the net, but the effort was disallowed after a VAR review for handball.
Despite late pressure from the Premier League side, Galatasaray held firm to secure a narrow victory and take a valuable advantage into the second leg scheduled for March 18 at Anfield.
Osimhen delivered an energetic performance, recording six shots with one on target, 24 touches, 11 passes with nine completed, and two defensive contributions during the encounter.
