Special Reports

Osimhen scores twice as Galatasaray crush Erzurumspor

The Super Eagles striker once again proved decisive, playing a central role in three of Galatasaray’s four goals as the champions bounced back from their opening-day draw with another newly promoted side

Victor Osimhen continued his sensational start to the new Turkish Süper Lig campaign, scoring twice and providing an assist as defending champions Galatasaray cruised to a 4-0 victory over newly promoted Erzurumspor FK at the Kazım Karabekir Stadium on Friday.

Roland Sallai opened the scoring for Galatasaray in the 12th minute before Osimhen turned provider eight minutes later.

The Nigerian forward created the opportunity for Yunus Akgün, who doubled the visitors’ advantage to put Galatasaray firmly in control.

Osimhen then got his name on the scoresheet just before half-time, finding the net in first-half stoppage time to give the champions a commanding 3-0 lead at the break.

The 27-year-old completed his brace in the 80th minute, putting the outcome beyond doubt and rounding off another outstanding individual performance.

His latest display further underlined his remarkable consistency in front of goal.

With two goals and an assist against Erzurumspor, Osimhen has now directly contributed to at least one goal in each of his last 14 league appearances for Galatasaray.

During that extraordinary run, the Nigerian has scored 16 goals and registered six assists, directly contributing to 21 goals.

Osimhen once again finished at the top of the match statistics, highlighting his growing influence not only as Galatasaray’s primary goalscorer but also as a creator for his teammates.

The former Napoli striker had already announced his intentions for this season on the opening weekend, scoring twice in Galatasaray’s 2-2 draw against Çorum at RAMS Park.

His brace rescued a point for the champions after they surrendered their advantage following Alexandros Kyziridis’ red card for the visitors.

Osimhen has therefore been directly involved in five of Galatasaray’s six goals in the club’s opening two league fixtures, with four goals and an assist as the Turkish champions begin their title defence.

The Nigerian striker will now look to maintain his blistering form as Galatasaray continue their pursuit of another Süper Lig crown.