'Tough draw' – Osimhen on facing Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, Man City in UCL league phase

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has expressed confidence in Galatasaray’s chances of making a mark in the UEFA Champions League, despite being drawn in a tough group alongside Atletico Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester City.

Galatasaray will also face Eintracht Frankfurt, Bodø/Glimt, Ajax Amsterdam, Monaco and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in the league phase of the Champions League.

Osimhen rejoined the Turkish giants permanently in the summer after a prolific loan spell in the 2024/2025 season.

Last season, he netted 37 goals and registered eight assists across all competitions, powering Galatasaray to a domestic double.

Osimhen has carried that momentum into the new campaign, finding the back of the net in Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Rizespor at Rams Park.

Addressing reporters after the game, the 26-year-old expressed belief in Galatasaray’s quality and resilience, stressing that the squad has what it takes to compete strongly in Europe’s elite competition.

"We need to work hard and fight hard. Looking at the quality of our players and our coach. I truly believe we can succeed,"he was quoted as saying by Galatasaray's official website.

Despite his confidence in Galatasaray’s chances, the Super Eagles striker also admitted the strength and quality of their group-stage opponents.

"It's a tough draw, you could say. We want to compete in every competition we play. We want to reach the final in every competition. This club sets its own standards."

He maintained that the club is taking the right steps and making the necessary progress to achieve its objectives this season.

"We're heading in the right direction. We'll do everything we can to achieve these goals and achieve what we want."

After Saturday’s win, the Nigerian international will now turn his focus to national team duties as he looks to boost Nigeria’s bid for World Cup qualification.

Named in the 23-man squad to face South Africa and Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Osimhen will be eager to extend his fine form to the international stage and help the Super Eagles secure crucial victories that could revive their hopes of reaching the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale

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