Former Norway captain names history-chasing Osimhen among five stars in Galatasaray squad

Former Norway captain Omar Elabdellaoui has praised the quality and depth of the current Galatasaray squad, naming Victor Osimhen among five standout players as he assessed Bodo/Glimt's prospects ahead of their UEFA Champions League meeting at Rams Park on Wednesday evening.

Osimhen joined Galatasaray on a permanent deal during the summer transfer window following a sensational loan spell last season.

The former Napoli star scored 37 goals in all competitions, playing a pivotal role in helping the Turkish giants secure a league and cup double in 2024-2025. 

On matchday two against Liverpool, Osimhen netted the decisive goal in Galatasaray's memorable victory, a strike that made him the first Nigerian player in history to reach ten goals in the UEFA Champions League.

Elabdellaoui, who previously represented both Galatasaray and Bodo/Glimt during his playing career, offered an evaluation of what the Norwegian champions must do to stand a chance against the Turkish giants.

"Glimt must be better defensively than they have been away in the past. They have conceded too many goals when they have played away in Europe," Elabdellaoui told Nettavisen.

"If they manage to be solid defensively, they will have opportunities for Galatasaray, like many other big clubs, to provide space and opportunities.

"But it won't be easy against the team that surprised with a home win against Liverpool in the previous round. The squad also shows enormous individual quality.

"You have Mauro Icardi, Leroy Sane, Ilkay Gündogan, Lucas Torreira and Victor Osimhen. It's a gigantic club and a huge task."

Osimhen will be chasing history when Galatasaray face Bodo/Glimt today.

The Nigerian striker is aiming to become the first Galatasaray player to score in seven consecutive European matches, a feat that would see him surpass Burak Yılmaz, with whom he currently shares the record.

Osimhen's prolific form in Europe has been instrumental in Galatasaray's recent success, and another goal today would cement his name in the club's record books.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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