Osimhen Fires Back at Critics After Ending Champions League Goal Drought

Victor Osimhen has responded firmly to criticism of his performances, declaring himself one of the best strikers in the world after scoring in Galatasaray’s reported 4-2 victory over Lille in the UEFA Champions League.

The Nigerian forward found the net on Wednesday, October 21, ending a three-match scoring drought. His recent performances had attracted criticism from Turkish media and football pundits, who questioned his coordination and interactions with teammates following his return from a groin injury.

Speaking after the match, Osimhen said goal droughts and difficult periods were part of football, insisting that they did not mean a player had lost confidence.

“I mean, I just try to do my best. Most of the time the game doesn’t go how I want, not just for me but for the team. But this doesn’t mean I’m nervous,” he said.

The Super Eagles striker also rejected suggestions that outside criticism should dictate his playing style, stressing that he remained confident in his abilities and willing to face any opponent.

“I came from a place where I’m not scared of challenges. I face any team as I want to face them. And I play my ball as I know how to do,” Osimhen said.

He added that his approach to the game was central to his success, describing himself as one of the world’s leading strikers. However, he emphasised that individual recognition must remain secondary to the club’s objectives.

“No, the club is bigger than any player. This is about a team, the collective effort of the team. I have too many things to actually worry about, not these types of talks,” he said.

Osimhen’s goal came after an eventful encounter at the Decathlon Arena. Lille’s Soriba Diaoune scored twice before Yunus Akgün and Aleksey Batrakov helped Galatasaray draw level, with Nabil Bentaleb’s own goal putting the visitors ahead. Osimhen then completed the scoring in the 61st minute with a counter-attacking finish. He did not celebrate against his former club and received a standing ovation from Lille supporters when substituted in the 85th minute.

The report also noted that Osimhen had endured personal difficulties in the days before the match. His pregnant partner was reportedly involved in a car accident on October 13, while their daughter sustained a broken foot and underwent surgery. Turkish journalist Ali Naci Küçük described Osimhen’s decision to play against Gençlerbirliği on October 17, despite the circumstances, as a sacrifice for the team. Galatasaray are now preparing for their Süper Lig clash against Fenerbahçe.