Osimhen Sets New Nigerian Record in UEFA Champions League
Nigeria international Victor Osimhen made history by scoring a hat-trick in Galatasaray’s 3-0 victory over Ajax in the UEFA Champions League. The Turkish champions avenged their previous Europa League defeat to the Dutch side, with Osimhen as the standout player.
Historic Hat-Trick Achievement
Osimhen became only the second Nigerian ever to score a hat-trick in the Champions League, replicating a feat first achieved 23 years ago by Everton legend Yakubu Aiyegbeni.
"Yakubu Aiyegbeni set the benchmark on September 24th, 2002, scoring all three goals for Maccabi Haifa in their 3-0 win over Olympiacos, becoming the first Nigerian and African to record a hat-trick in the competition."
Record-Breaking Goal Tally
With his latest goals, Osimhen surpassed Obafemi Martins as the highest-scoring Nigerian in European club competitions, reaching a total of 25 goals.
Osimhen’s Impact at Galatasaray
Having joined Galatasaray permanently from Napoli this season, Osimhen has been in outstanding form. He is now the first Galatasaray player to score in eight consecutive European matches.
- Scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 win over reigning Premier League champions Liverpool in September.
- Followed by a brace against Bodo/Glimt in subsequent European fixtures.
"Osimhen's achievements highlight his key role in Galatasaray's recent European successes."
Osimhen continues to demonstrate exceptional skill and consistency, solidifying his status among Nigeria’s football greats and in European competitions.