Victor Osimhen featured in his second official game for Galatasaray, and it was in the Super Lig Intercontinental derby, against Fenerbahce at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium, on Saturday.
Osimhen started ahead of Mauro Icardi who returns from an injury layoff, but the Nigerian didn’t make a very big statement at least not to degree the Gala fans would hope.
The Napoli loanee did get an assist though – but was denied a debut goal or more like his decision making let him down – as the Turkish champions ran away 3-1 victors on the night.
Osimhen hasn’t lived up to his own standards, but there’s feeling that it is only a matter of time before he breaks his duck for the Cimbom.
However, if he was expected to dominate the Super Lig defenders, he hasn’t quite hit that mark yet, but how long before the scrutiny, and the jury come for him?
Not A Good Look
The no. 45 has had chances in front of goal but his finishing has been a let down, and perhaps the lack of a pre-season has left him blunt in the final third.
His goal during the Africa Cup of Nations for Nigeria against Benin Republic, coming off the bench, would have caused some excitement, but has fired blank in three games since.
vs. Jackson
All summer during the transfer window, Osimhen’s name had been on the lips of everyone at Chelsea as the missing link to the Blues’ attack.
A clear indictment of Senegal’s Nicolas Jackson – who never mind his 14goals and 5 assists in 35 league appearances in his debut premier league season.
The 23 year-old has started off in pretty much the same fashion this term with 4goals 2assists already in his first five PL games.
Jackson is silencing his doubters and perhaps putting a lid on calls for Osimhen’s transfer to Stamford Bridge for the time being.
London Derby Hero
Nicolas Jackson stunned the London Stadium home crowd with a first half brace (4′, 18′) before setting up Cole Palmer (47′) for Chelsea’s third in the 3-0 routing.
He showed some efficiency in front of goal, not unconnected with Enzo Maresca’s game strategy against Hammers’, and it ensured the oft-criticized forward made earned more plaudits.
Next Chance for Osimhen?
Galatasaray will return to action in midweek, when they face PAOK in the Europa League at RAMS Park.
The Nigerian might get his chance to feature again and will certain be eager to tick that box of his first goal.