By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York
Victor Osimhen expressed pride in Galatasaray’s performance after the Nigerian striker provided the decisive assist in their 1–0 victory over Liverpool in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round-of-16 clash in Istanbul on Tuesday.
Galatasaray seized the advantage early at RAMS Park when Mario Lemina headed home in the **7th minute**, finishing from close range after Osimhen redirected Gabriel Sara’s corner back across the goalmouth. ([ESPN.com][1])
The early breakthrough proved enough to secure a narrow but crucial win over the Premier League champions ahead of the return leg at Anfield.
Speaking after the match, Osimhen praised the collective effort of his teammates and explained how the early goal boosted Galatasaray’s confidence.
“Scoring early changed the rhythm of the match,” the Nigerian striker said. “It gave us belief and forced them to chase the game, which created spaces for us.
“We knew this was going to be a very difficult game. Liverpool are a top team in Europe, so we had to stay focused from the first minute.”
Liverpool pushed hard for an equaliser, particularly after the break, but Galatasaray remained disciplined at the back to protect their slender advantage.
Osimhen commended the team’s defensive organisation, stressing that every player contributed to keeping the visitors at bay.
“Everyone defended tonight,” he said. “From the attackers to the defenders, we worked as a unit. That’s what you need when you play against a team like Liverpool.”
The striker also highlighted the intense atmosphere inside the Istanbul stadium, crediting the home supporters for driving the team through difficult moments.
“Our fans were unbelievable tonight,” Osimhen added. “When you hear that noise, it pushes you to run more and fight for every ball.”
Despite the victory, Osimhen warned that the tie remains far from decided, with Liverpool set to host the decisive second leg at Anfield.
“We are happy with the win, but the job is not finished,” he said. “We know they will come very strong in the next game.”
Galatasaray will travel to England for the return leg on March 18, carrying a slender advantage but aware that another disciplined performance will be required to secure a place in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Leave feedback about this