Osimhen's 20th goal of the season not enough as Galatasaray crash out of Europa League

Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen found the net for Galatasaray in their UEFA Europa League playoff second-leg clash against AZ Alkmaar, but his efforts were not enough to prevent elimination. 

The Turkish giants could only manage a 2-2 draw at Rams Park, resulting in a 6-3 aggregate defeat.

Osimhen, who missed the first leg due to suspension, was eager to inspire a comeback in front of the home crowd.

Galatasaray, trailing 4-1 from the first encounter, needed a strong start to overturn the deficit. 

However, AZ Alkmaar, unfazed by the hostile atmosphere, dictated the early exchanges and threatened to extend their advantage.

The visitors took the lead just before halftime when Ernest Poku set up Seiya Maikuma for a simple finish past Günay Güvenç, putting AZ further in control. 

The Dutch side then delivered a knockout blow early in the second half, as Denso Kasius unleashed a stunning long-range strike that left the Galatasaray defense stunned.

With the aggregate score at 6-1, Galatasaray needed a miracle. Osimhen, determined to make an impact, pulled one back with a powerful finish—his sixth goal in the Europa League this season.

Roland Sallai then added another, giving the home side a glimmer of hope, but it was too little, too late.

Despite the disappointing exit, Osimhen's form has been a bright spot for Galatasaray this season. 

Since joining on loan from Napoli, the Nigerian international has been in exceptional form, scoring 20 goals across  all competitions. 

His performances have made him a fan favorite and a key figure in the team’s domestic and European campaigns.

Wale Adejumo

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