Champions League: Osimhen fires blanks as Real Madrid complete double over Napoli

Osimhen got 45 minutes of action for Napoli, but he failed to make it count against Real Madrid

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen got 45 minutes of action for Napoli, but he failed to make it count as the Partenopeans succumbed to a 4-2 loss to Real Madrid in their penultimate Champions League group game on Wednesday, Soccernet.ng.

Napoli travelled to the Santiago Bernabeu to take on Spanish giants Real Madrid. Nigeria star Osimhen returned to action last weekend in Napoli’s win over Atalanta in the Serie A.

However, against Real Madrid, the 24-year-old talismanic striker started from the bench. Los Blancos beat Napoli in the first leg, so Walter Mazzarri’s men needed to get all their points.

Napoli had a dream start to the game, with Giovanni Simeone giving them the lead in the 9th minute. However, Rodrygo drew level for Madrid in the 11th minute. Then, Jude Bellingham scored their second goal in the 22nd minute to give Los Blancos the lead.

The first half ended 2-1. And at halftime, Mazzarri introduced Osimhen in place of Simeone. Two minutes into the second half, Zambo Anguissa scored the equaliser for the Partenopeans.

Napoli had a great opportunity in the 52nd minute when they went on a quick counter with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia controlling the show. However, his pass to Osimhen, who was lurking in the box, was easily cut out.

In the 68th minute, Osimhen thought he had given Napoli the lead, but his goal was ruled out for offside. Eventually, goals from Nico Paz and Joselu sealed the win 4-2 win for Real Madrid.

In his 45 minutes of action, Osimhen did not have any goal attempt. But this can be blamed on the lack of service. Napoli play Braga next in the UCL, and a draw would seal their place in the Round of 16.

This post was last modified on November 30, 2023 8:09 am

Kelvin Omachonu

Kelvin Omachonu is a writer with many years of experience covering sports events in Nigeria and abroad. He is fueled by his love for the job, and is dedicated to delivering captivating stories.

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