Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was on target for Galatasaray, but his goal was not enough as they fell to a 2-1 defeat to Ajax in their final group game of the Europa League, Soccernet.ng reports.
Aside from Juventus, Galatasaray had been the only unbeaten team in Europe’s top ten leagues this season. And they were looking to maintain that record when they travelled to Amsterdam to take on Dutch giants Ajax at the Johan Cruijff Arena.
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Nigerian hitman Osimhen maintained his spot in the starting eleven after scoring in his previous three games for the Lions. He also had his former Napoli teammate Dries Mertens for support in the final third.
Galatasaray dominated the first half, and Osimhen got his first big chance in the 18th minute. He got on the end of a cross from Baris Alper Yilmaz but failed to convert his header.
Galatasaray were made to rue that miss, as just five minutes later, Ajax scored courtesy of Bertrand Traore. Chuba Akpom, subbed on in the 12th minute due to an injury to Mika Godts, supplied the assist for the goal.
The game was pretty balanced, with both teams going at it. However, the scoreline was still 1-0 at halftime.
The second half was more explosive, but Galatasaray failed to capitalise. On the other hand, Ajax was more clinical with their finishing, as Kian Fritz-Jim doubled their lead in the 58th minute.
The reigning Turkish champions had to wait until stoppage time before they got their goal, courtesy of Osimhen. He showed his sharp striker’s instinct, getting a rebound in the box and placing a cool finish into the net to make it 2-1.
Victor Osimhen with a consolation goal for Galatasaray against Ajax.
pic.twitter.com/D27pK3kLNC— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) January 30, 2025
Galatasaray had 26 shots on the night, but they took only one. And although Osimhen scored their only goal, he could have scored more, as he recorded nine shots on goal.
It eventually ended 2-1 in Ajax’s favour, and Galatasaray was condemned to their first loss this season.
