Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has etched his name in Turkish football history after helping Galatasaray seal the Turkish Super Lig title with a convincing 3-0 win over Kayserispor on Sunday night.
The victory, coming just five days after Galatasaray lifted the Turkish Cup, marks a historic double for the Istanbul giants and a career-defining milestone for the Super Eagles forward.
Osimhen, 24, opened the scoring in the 26th minute with a powerful header, meeting a precise cross from Gabriel Sara. The goal set the tone for what became a dominant display by the Turkish side. Just three minutes later, Baris Alper Yilmaz made it 2-0, sending the packed NEF Stadium into wild celebration.
Though Osimhen is the club’s designated penalty taker, he opted to hand over spot-kick duties to long-serving goalkeeper Fernando Muslera late in the second half. The 38-year-old Uruguayan, who is expected to leave the club at the end of the season after 14 years of service, calmly converted the penalty, capping off the night and his storied Galatasaray career on a high.
Galatasaray Clinch Title With Two Games to Spare
Sunday’s win took Galatasaray’s points tally to 89—eight ahead of their closest rivals, Fenerbahce, coached by Portuguese tactician Jose Mourinho. With just two league games left to play, Galatasaray are now mathematically out of reach and officially crowned 2024/2025 Turkish Super Lig champions.
This latest triumph marks Galatasaray’s 25th league title—further strengthening their position as Turkey’s most successful football club. It also completes a memorable season for the team, who added the Turkish Cup to their trophy cabinet last Wednesday with a hard-fought victory over Trabzonspor.
Osimhen was the star of that Turkish Cup final as well, scoring two goals in what was considered one of the finest individual performances of the tournament.
Osimhen Breaks 24-Year-Old Scoring Record
Osimhen’s goal on Sunday brings his league tally to 25 goals this season, capping a sensational run of form in his debut season in Turkey. When combined with his Turkish Cup goals, he has now scored 35 times across all competitions—breaking a long-standing record in the process.
His brace in last week’s Turkish Cup final took him past the previous record of 34 goals in a single season, held by Brazilian legend Mario Jardel since 2000. Jardel, who also played for Galatasaray during his career, had set the record during a particularly dominant era for the club.
By surpassing Jardel’s milestone, Osimhen becomes the most prolific foreign player in a single season in Turkish football history—a testament to his clinical finishing, physical dominance, and consistency throughout the campaign.
A Season to Remember
The Nigerian international’s success story in Turkey comes just months after he made a surprise loan move from Serie A champions Napoli. While many expected the striker to continue his career in Italy or move to England or Spain, Galatasaray were able to secure his services on a season-long loan deal that has now proven to be a masterstroke.
Osimhen’s impact has gone beyond goals. His presence in attack has provided space and opportunities for his teammates, while his energy and commitment have made him a fan favorite. His chemistry with playmaker Gabriel Sara and winger Baris Alper Yilmaz has been key to Galatasaray’s dominance this season.
Fans, analysts, and pundits alike have praised Osimhen for not just his goalscoring exploits, but his humility and team spirit. His decision to let Muslera take the penalty—knowing it would be one of the goalkeeper’s final games for the club—was described by commentators as a “class act.”
What Next for Osimhen?
With just a few weeks left in the season, attention now turns to what the future holds for the Nigerian forward. His loan deal with Galatasaray expires at the end of the current campaign, and Napoli, his parent club, may be looking to cash in on him during the summer transfer window.
Given his remarkable form, European heavyweights are expected to line up for his signature. Reports in Italy and Spain suggest that Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Arsenal, are monitoring his situation closely.
However, Galatasaray fans are hoping their club can negotiate either a permanent deal or extend the loan for another season. Club president Dursun Özbek has hinted at “ongoing talks” with Napoli and the player’s representatives.
Whatever happens, Osimhen’s impact on Turkish football this season is already written in gold.
Mourinho’s Future in Doubt
Meanwhile, Galatasaray’s fierce rivals Fenerbahce have been left to lick their wounds. Finishing second once again and missing out on both league and cup titles has raised questions about Jose Mourinho’s future at the club.
Local media reports in Turkey indicate that the Portuguese manager is growing increasingly frustrated with the club’s hierarchy and may consider terminating his contract, which still has one year left to run.
Mourinho’s side had been tipped to challenge for the title this season, but inconsistency and dropped points in crucial matches allowed Galatasaray to pull away.
Nigerian Stars Shine Abroad
Osimhen’s achievement is the latest chapter in a season that has seen Nigerian footballers make headlines across Europe. From Ademola Lookman’s heroics in Italy to Taiwo Awoniyi’s comeback story in England, the exploits of Nigerian internationals continue to be a source of pride for the country.
For Osimhen, this season will be remembered not just for goals and trophies, but for making history in one of Europe’s most passionate football leagues.
As Nigerian fans celebrate his success in Turkey, many will also be hoping he brings the same firepower to the Super Eagles during the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
