-Deborah Akinyosoye
Victor Osimhen’s lethal form in front of goal has been a defining factor for Galatasaray in the UEFA Europa League this season. After delivering a match-winning brace against Tottenham Hotspur in a thrilling 3-2 encounter on Matchday 4, the Nigerian forward will aim to extend his scoring streak as the Lions face AZ Alkmaar at the AFAS Stadion on Thursday (today)
Osimhen’s impact has been undeniable, with four goals contributed in three Europa League appearances this term, each one instrumental in securing points for Okan Buruk’s side.
His brace against Spurs not only highlighted his clinical finishing but also reaffirmed his position as one of Europe’s most in-form strikers.
Galatasaray enter Thursday’s clash in scintillating form, unbeaten in their last 14 matches across all competitions, with 12 wins and two draws. Their Europa League campaign has been just as impressive, collecting 10 points from four matches, including a 3-1 victory over PAOK, a dramatic 4-3 win against Elfsborg, and the statement win over Spurs.
Currently leading the Turkish Super Lig by five points, Galatasaray’s domestic dominance has been fuelled by Osimhen’s contributions, including six goals in seven league matches. Despite their stellar run, their away form in Europe raises questions, with a 2-2 draw against RFS and a loss to Young Boys in Champions League qualification earlier this season.
AZ Alkmaar, unbeaten in European home matches this season, pose a formidable challenge. The Dutch side secured a 3-1 victory over Fenerbahce on Matchday 4, extending their unbeaten streak against Turkish teams to seven matches (four wins, three draws). Maarten Martens’ team have also been prolific at home, scoring at least two goals in six of their seven encounters with Turkish opposition.
However, AZ’s Europa League campaign has been inconsistent. After a strong start with a 3-2 win over Elfsborg, back-to-back losses to Athletic Club and Spurs derailed their momentum and Osimhen will look to capitalize on this hitch in form on Thursday (today).
Osimhen’s partnership with Galatasaray’s creative midfielders has been a key driver of the team’s success. The 25-year-old striker’s combination of pace, strength, and finishing ability makes him a constant threat, particularly against defences that struggle with physicality and movement.
The Nigerian forward’s brace against Spurs showcased his ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes games, a trait Galatasaray will heavily rely on against AZ.
Osimhen will look to add to his two-goal tally against a Dutch defence that has conceded five goals in their last three European matches.
A win for Galatasaray would cement their position as group leaders, while AZ will be desperate to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
As the Europa League heats up, the AFAS Stadion will be the stage for an enthralling contest, with Osimhen poised to once again prove why he’s one of Europe’s most feared forwards.