Super Eagles striker bags hat-trick for Galatasaray as Nigeria’s key man hits peak form
Victor Osimhen sent a powerful message ahead of Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifying play-off next week, as he netted a sensational second-half hat-trick for Galatasaray in their 3–0 away victory over Ajax Amsterdam in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night.
The Super Eagles talisman was in unstoppable form, showcasing the sharpness and composure that Nigeria will count on when he leads the attack in next week’s decisive encounter.
After a goalless first half in Amsterdam, Osimhen broke the deadlock in the 59th minute with a classic striker’s header, diving low to meet Leroy Sané’s teasing cross. Seven minutes later, he doubled the advantage from the penalty spot after a handball by Ajax defender Youri Baas.
The Nigerian forward completed his hat-trick in the 78th minute with another well-taken penalty following yet another Ajax defensive blunder. The treble took his Champions League tally for the season to six goals, underlining his devastating form in front of goal.
Galatasaray’s victory lifted them to ninth place in the group standings with nine points from four matches, while four-time European champions Ajax remain winless and bottom of the 36-team table.
Osimhen’s commanding performance not only secured three valuable points for his Turkish club but also reignited optimism among Nigerian fans. With his confidence sky-high and his scoring boots firing, all eyes will now turn to the Super Eagles’ forward line, where Osimhen is expected to spearhead Nigeria’s attack in the upcoming World Cup play-off.
His clinical finishing, leadership, and hunger for goals could prove decisive as Nigeria aims to take a major step toward qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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