Nigeria international Victor Osimhen has cautioned his Galatasaray teammates against underestimating Barcelona ahead of their UEFA Champions League showdown next week. Osimhen's warning comes after Galatasaray's dramatic 3-1 victory over Kasımpasa on Friday night. The Turkish champions were reduced to 10 men but managed to secure the win, with Osimhen providing an assist for Mario Lemina's 96th-minute strike.
Osimhen's return from a groin injury could prove crucial for Galatasaray's upcoming match against Barcelona. The Super Eagles striker came off the bench to make an immediate impact, assisting Lemina's goal. Galatasaray will host Barcelona on Tuesday, October 13, in their second league-phase fixture. A victory would give the Turkish side their first points of this Champions League campaign and a valuable boost in the race for a place in the knockout rounds.
Galatasaray's task was made more difficult after Lucas Torreira's dismissal in the 65th minute, but Bans Alper Yılmaz restored their lead in the 90th minute. The hosts had taken the lead through Abdulkerim Bardakcı's first-half opener, only for Jesurun Rak-Sakyi to equalize for Kasımpasa in the 68th minute. Osimhen's experience playing against Barcelona could be valuable for his teammates, having previously faced the Spanish giants during his Napoli days.
In his previous encounter with Barcelona, Osimhen scored in a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their 2024 Champions League round-of-16 tie. However, Barcelona won the return leg 3-1 to progress. The Nigerian forward is aware of the challenge posed by Barcelona, stating that they have very quality players. He believes the match will help Galatasaray both collectively and individually.
Galatasaray face a difficult record against Barcelona, with the Spanish giants boasting five wins, two draws, and just one defeat against the Turkish club in their Champions League meetings. Barcelona began this season's league phase with a 5-1 victory over Feyenoord, while Galatasaray lost 3-1 away to Sporting CP. Osimhen's return and contribution will be crucial in turning Friday's momentum into a memorable European night.
The 27-year-old Osimhen expressed his excitement about facing Barcelona, stating that it will be a great match. He also praised the atmosphere at RAMS Park, having witnessed Champions League nights there multiple times. Osimhen's experience and skills will be vital for Galatasaray as they seek to overcome their challenging record against Barcelona.
With Osimhen back and already contributing, Galatasaray will hope to secure a valuable win against Barcelona. A victory would not only give them their first points of this Champions League campaign but also provide a boost in their quest for a place in the knockout rounds. The match is expected to be a significant challenge for both teams, with Osimhen's performance likely to play a key role in determining the outcome.
Key points
- Victor Osimhen warns Galatasaray against underestimating Barcelona ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash.
- Osimhen returns from injury and provides an assist in Galatasaray's 3-1 victory over Kasımpasa.
- Galatasaray face a difficult record against Barcelona, with the Spanish giants boasting five wins and two draws against the Turkish club.
