Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has pledged to bring European glory to Turkish side Galatasaray.
Osimhen made the pledge on Thursday night following Galatasaray’s hard-fought 1-1 draw away at AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Europa League.
Chronice NG reports that the Nigerian forward was instrumental in securing the result, netting a crucial equaliser in the 43rd minute after the Dutch side had taken an early lead.
Despite the draw, his confidence in the team’s European ambitions remains unwavering, as he assured fans of his commitment to bringing the coveted UEFA Cup to Turkey.
In an interview with Parçalı Sportz, a renowned Turkish sports media source on X, Osimhen stated, “I promised to score a goal, and I did.” I guarantee you one more thing: the UEFA Cup will come to Turkey.”
Osimhen, who has rapidly become a fan favourite at Galatasaray, followed up his statements with an outstanding performance in their most recent European match.
His statement has sparked enthusiasm and renewed hope among Galatasaray fans hoping for a continental victory, according to the agency’s late Thursday night X post.
Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar head coach Maarten Martens poured gasoline on Turkey’s heated football rivalry. When asked why his squad defeated Fenerbahçe but struggled against Galatasaray, Martens simply stated, “Galatasaray is much bigger than Fenerbahçe.”
The remark has already sparked intense controversy among fans and pundits, reigniting the passionate argument over Istanbul’s football hegemony.
Galatasaray is currently fourth in the Europa 36 league phase table with 11 points, two points behind the first three leaders, who have 13 points.
On Thursday, December 12, 2024, the unbeaten Okan Buruk team travels to Swedish club Malmö FF for Matchday 6.
Galatasaray won the UEFA Cup in 1999-2000, becoming the first Turkish team to do so after defeating Arsenal in the final. They also won the UEFA Super Cup in 2000.
