Victor Osimhen etched his name into Turkish football history on a memorable Wednesday night, spearheading Galatasaray to a resounding 3-0 victory over Trabzonspor in the Turkish Cup final. Osimhen’s brace, his 34th and 35th goals of the season across all competitions, not only secured the coveted trophy for his team but also shattered a long-standing record. He surpassed Brazilian striker Mario Jardel’s 23-year-old record of 34 goals in a single season by a foreign player, a feat achieved during the 2000/01 campaign. Osimhen’s remarkable achievement solidified his place as one of the most prolific foreign strikers to grace the Turkish Süper Lig, capping off a stunning debut season.
The final, held at the Gaziantep Stadium, witnessed a dominant performance from Galatasaray, orchestrated by their astute manager Okan Buruk. The Istanbul giants took an early lead in the fifth minute, courtesy of a well-worked team goal finished by Barış Alper Yılmaz, who capitalized on a pinpoint pass from Yunus Akgün. This early strike set the stage for Galatasaray’s control over the match, despite a few attempts from Trabzonspor’s Anthony Nwakaeme and Ozan Tufan. Galatasaray maintained their offensive pressure, creating several opportunities, with Osimhen at the heart of their attacking prowess.
Osimhen’s first goal, arriving just moments into the second half, showcased his predatory instincts. He expertly timed his run to meet a through ball from Yılmaz, shielding the ball from his defender before unleashing a low shot past the outstretched arms of Trabzonspor goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır. The goal not only doubled Galatasaray’s lead but also equaled Jardel’s record. Osimhen’s hunger for goals was evident, and he wasn’t content with just matching the record.
The Nigerian striker’s second goal, a testament to his skill and composure, arrived in the 63rd minute. Following a recycled corner, Akgün, positioned on the right flank, delivered an inch-perfect pass into the box. Osimhen, with impeccable control, expertly curled the ball into the top corner, leaving Çakır with no chance. This strike not only cemented Galatasaray’s victory but also etched Osimhen’s name into the record books, surpassing Jardel’s tally and sparking joyous celebrations among the Galatasaray faithful. The brace showcased his evolution as a complete striker – capable of both poaching goals and creating moments of individual brilliance.
Osimhen’s record-breaking performance further cemented his legacy at Galatasaray, elevating his status within the club’s pantheon of legendary foreign goalscorers. While he still trails the iconic Romanian Gheorghe Hagi, who holds the club’s all-time foreign goalscoring record with 72 goals, Osimhen’s rapid ascent suggests that he is well on his way to becoming one of the club’s most prolific strikers. His achievements resonate not only with Galatasaray fans but also with Nigerian football enthusiasts, who celebrate his success on the international stage.
The resounding victory in the Turkish Cup final marked Galatasaray’s 19th title in the competition, extending their record as the most successful club in the tournament’s history. They outshine their rivals Beşiktaş (11 titles), Trabzonspor (9 titles), and Fenerbahçe (7 titles), solidifying their dominance in Turkish cup competitions. With the Turkish Cup secured, Galatasaray set their sights on achieving a domestic double by clinching the Süper Lig title. A win against Kayserispor in their upcoming league match would secure their 25th league title and their first double since the 1998/99 season, adding another chapter to the club’s illustrious history. Osimhen’s contribution to the team’s success has undoubtedly been pivotal, and he will be crucial to their hopes of achieving this historic feat.
