Victor Osimhen: Why Galatasaray are pushing for Nigeria goal-king’s swift return after Zimbabwe clash

Victor Osimhen will make a rapid return to Turkey to join Galatasaray immediately after Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe on Tuesday, March 25, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Eagles’ talisman played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Rwanda last Friday, scoring both goals to reignite hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Now, with another crucial clash against Zimbabwe in Uyo on the horizon, Osimhen is expected to lead the line once again.

Despite Nigeria’s focus on securing back-to-back wins in qualifying, Galatasaray are eager to have their star striker back as soon as possible.

Exclusive scenes from the #SuperEagles’ intense Sunday evening training— Naija’s No.9 leading the charge as work dey go down pic.twitter.com/acj0k09qyS

— Soccernet.ng (@soccernet_ng) March 24, 2025

The Turkish giants face fierce rivals Beşiktaş in a high-stakes Istanbul derby on Saturday, March 29, and Osimhen will be central to their game plan.

The 26-year-old is set to rejoin his club in Turkey on Wednesday, March 26, giving him just three days to prepare for the showdown, as per Fotomac.

The next few days will be a whirlwind for Osimhen.

After leading Nigeria against Zimbabwe, he will board a flight to Turkey almost immediately, with little time to recover before getting back to work with Galatasaray. The club’s medical and fitness staff will have their hands full ensuring the striker is fresh for the derby.

However, Osimhen has shown time and again that he thrives under pressure. His relentless work rate, sharp finishing, and ability to turn games on their head make him one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.

Victor Osimhen: Red-hot form for club and country

Osimhen has been in electric form since joining Galatasaray on loan from Napoli.

He currently leads the Turkish Super Lig scoring charts with 20 goals in just 22 league appearances, to boost his status as one of the most prolific strikers in Europe.

His recent run has been particularly impressive, netting eight times in his last four matches across all competitions for Nigeria and Galatasaray.

Just before the international break, the Nigerian striker showed his brilliance with a hat-trick against Antalyaspor, to emphasise his importance to Galatasaray’s title ambitions. His ability to deliver on the big stage has made him indispensable to both club and country.

30 goals for club and country this season!

Victor Osimhen has been lethal⚡ pic.twitter.com/vPSWGE7qkL

— Soar Super Eagles (@SSE_NGA) March 23, 2025

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Beşiktaş derby: A must-win for Galatasaray

Osimhen’s return is crucial as Galatasaray prepare for a major test against Beşiktaş at the Tüpraş Stadium.

The Black Eagles, managed by former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjær, are struggling, having lost three consecutive league games. That poor run has left them trailing third-placed Samsunspor by seven points.

Galatasaray, on the other hand, are flying high at the top of the table. With 71 points from 27 matches, they hold a nine-point lead over second-placed Fenerbahçe, who have a game in hand. Managed by ex-Chelsea boss José Mourinho, Fenerbahçe remain in the hunt, making every game crucial for Galatasaray’s title push.

A victory over Beşiktaş would further strengthen their grip on the league and put them in pole position to reclaim the Super Lig title. Having Osimhen back in time for the match could be the difference-maker in a fixture that often proves decisive in the title race.

Still, Osimhen’s immediate focus will be on the Super Eagles next game against Zimbabwe and the role he can play in a potential Super Eagles win.

Now Nigeria’s all-time second highest goalscorer in history, Osimhen will be Nigeria's biggest threat against the Warriors.

The former CAF Footballer of the Year will likely be one of Africa’s biggest asset at the World Cup should Nigeria manage to qualify.