Victor Osimhen Sets Champions League Record Against Liverpool
- Sports
- 01.10.2025
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Victor Osimhen Sets Champions League Record Against Liverpool
Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s star striker and Super Eagles forward, has etched his name into football history after setting a new UEFA Champions League record. On Tuesday night, the 26-year-old became the first Nigerian player to score 10 goals in the Champions League proper (excluding qualifying rounds). His achievement came during Galatasaray’s clash with Premier League champions Liverpool at Rams Park in Istanbul.
Victor Osimhen historic goal, scored from the penalty spot in the 16th minute, not only handed his club Galatasaray an early advantage but also placed Osimhen firmly ahead of other Nigerian football legends such as Obafemi Martins, Nwankwo Kanu, and Yakubu Aiyegbeni in the record books.
Victor Osimhen’s feat is even more remarkable considering he was just returning from an ankle injury sustained during Nigeria’s World Cup qualification matches against Rwanda and South Africa. Despite limited match fitness, Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk trusted the striker with a starting role against one of Europe’s most feared teams, Liverpool.
The striker showed resilience and composure, converting the penalty past Liverpool’s goalkeeper Alisson Becker with confidence. This goal signaled his readiness to lead the Turkish giants in their European campaign and reassured Nigerian fans of his form ahead of crucial international fixtures.
The breakthrough came when Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai fouled inside the box, prompting the referee to point to the spot. Osimhen stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the net, sending Alisson the wrong way. The goal marked his 10th strike in the UEFA Champions League, making him the most prolific Nigerian in the tournament’s history.
Before this, the record was held by Obafemi Martins with nine goals, followed by other notable Nigerian forwards like Ademola Lookman, Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba, and Yakubu Aiyegbeni, each with five goals.
Victor Osimhen’s Champions League journey has been defined by determination, clinical finishing, and a steady rise in European football. From his breakthrough at Lille OSC in France, to his record-breaking move to Napoli in Italy, and now his impactful presence at Galatasaray, Osimhen has consistently delivered on Europe’s biggest stage.
At Napoli, Osimhen played a crucial role in ending the club’s 33-year Serie A title drought, but his performances in the Champions League were equally noteworthy. Scoring against some of Europe’s top clubs, he proved himself as one of the most lethal African strikers in world football.
Nigerian players have a proud history in the UEFA Champions League. Legends like Nwankwo Kanu, Finidi George, Obafemi Martins, and John Obi Mikel have all left their mark in the competition. However, Osimhen’s achievement of becoming the first Nigerian to hit double digits in UCL goals sets him apart from the rest.
Here’s a quick look at top Nigerian scorers in the Champions League:
- Victor Osimhen – 10 goals
- Obafemi Martins – 9 goals
- Ademola Lookman – 5 goals
- Nwankwo Kanu – 5 goals
- Victor Ikpeba – 5 goals
- Yakubu Aiyegbeni – 5 goals
With Victor Osimhen only 26 years old, there is a strong chance that he will extend this record significantly before the end of his career.
For Galatasaray, Osimhen’s presence has already proven to be a game-changer. His goal against Liverpool not only boosted the team’s confidence but also underlined his importance as a big-game player. The Turkish Super Lig side will rely heavily on Osimhen’s finishing ability as they navigate the group stages against Europe’s elite clubs.
Fans of Galatasaray welcomed his goal with jubilation, knowing that having a proven goal scorer like Osimhen increases their chances of advancing deep into the competition.
Osimhen’s milestone is not just a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Nigerian football. It highlights the country’s ability to produce world-class talent capable of excelling at the highest level. For young Nigerian players aspiring to play in Europe, Osimhen’s record serves as a source of inspiration.
It also reinforces Nigeria’s status as one of Africa’s leading football nations, with players consistently making waves in top European competitions.
While Victor Osimhen is currently focused on Galatasaray’s campaign, speculation about his long-term future continues to swirl. Several top European clubs, including Premier League and La Liga giants, are reportedly monitoring his progress. With his goalscoring ability, strength, and pace, Osimhen remains one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.
If he maintains his form, he could soon become not only Nigeria’s greatest Champions League scorer but also one of Africa’s all-time best in the competition.
The football world reacted swiftly to Osimhen’s historic goal. Nigerian fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages, while analysts praised his consistency and determination. Former Super Eagles stars also hailed the striker, emphasizing that his achievement will inspire the next generation of Nigerian footballers.
UEFA’s official channels highlighted his record, cementing his place in the history books of the prestigious competition.
Victor Osimhen’s Champions League record against Liverpool is a moment of pride for both Nigeria and Africa. By becoming the first Nigerian to score 10 goals in the competition proper, he has set a new benchmark for excellence. His journey from Lagos to Europe’s biggest stages reflects dedication, resilience, and an unyielding passion for football.
As Galatasaray’s European campaign continues, all eyes will remain on Osimhen to see how far he can push this record. For now, his achievement stands as a reminder that Nigerian players can not only compete but also dominate at the very highest levels of global football.
