Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen shared his thoughts on Galatasaray’s 1-1 Super Lig draw at Atakaş Hatayspor on Friday, following a second-half penalty that leveled the score after Cemali Sertel’s 28th-minute opener for the hosts.
Osimhen acknowledged that Galatasaray struggled in the first half but showed marked improvement after halftime, following a motivating speech from manager Okan Buruk.
“There was a bit of a lack of intensity in the first half,” Osimhen admitted, as quoted by Galatasaray’s official website. “We let the opponent play a bit. But after our coach’s speech, we started the second half very well, increased the intensity, and focused on our game.”
He also noted the importance of maintaining focus and seizing opportunities. “These matches are difficult, and we need to take advantage of every chance. We missed many opportunities, but we will try to improve by learning from our mistakes.”
The 26-year-old striker joined Galatasaray in the summer with a clause in his loan deal allowing him to leave in January for certain clubs, including Manchester United. However, Osimhen rejected the opportunity to move, reinforcing his commitment to Galatasaray for the remainder of the season.
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Reflecting on his decision to stay, Osimhen expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received from teammates and the coaching staff.
“When I came to the team, my friends welcomed me very well. They helped me in every way. My coach showed confidence in me, and my teammates supported me, which made it easy to adapt,” he said.
Osimhen remains focused on achieving the team’s goals. “I am focused on the team right now. We have certain goals for the season, and we’re taking firm steps toward them. We will continue to fight, and I believe we will achieve great things.”
Galatasaray remains unbeaten in the Super Lig after 19 matches, holding a nine-point lead over Fenerbahce, with a game in hand. They are also in contention for trophies in both the Europa League and the Turkish Cup.
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Despite a packed schedule, with 29 games played across all competitions this season, Osimhen dismissed concerns about fatigue.
“I don’t think there is fatigue in the team. This is our job. It’s not just the 11 players. The guys on the bench are always ready. I’m always ready and want to play for my team,” he affirmed.
Osimhen has been in exceptional form this season, scoring 11 goals in 14 league matches, continuing a streak of double-digit goal tallies over the past seven years, spanning stints with Galatasaray, Napoli, Lille, and Sporting Charleroi.