Osimhen Hat-Trick Propels Galatasaray to a Stunning 3-0 Victory over Ajax

In a dazzling display of skill and composure, Victor Osimhen fired Galatasaray to a commanding 3-0 victory over Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Wednesday. The Nigerian striker stole the spotlight with an inspiring hat-trick, featuring two precise penalty conversions and a powerful header, ensuring the Turkish giants silenced the Amsterdam crowd and left Ajax struggling throughout the match.

The deadlock was broken in the 59th minute when Osimhen headed home a perfect cross from Leroy Sané, marking the first goal of the game after a tightly contested first half. He then confidently slotted home a penalty in the 66th minute following a handball by Ajax defender Youri Baas. Galatasaray’s relentless pressure resulted in a second penalty after another handball inside the box by Gerald Alders in the 78th minute, which Osimhen coolly converted to complete his hat-trick and seal the emphatic win.

Despite a handful of chances created by Ajax’s Oscar Gloukh and Mika Godts, the Dutch side failed to breach Galatasaray’s disciplined defense. The visitors’ midfield dominance, led by Mario Lemina, Lucas Torreira, and Wilfried Singo, effectively controlled the game tempo.

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Osimhen’s hat-trick was historic—it saw him surpass the European goal scoring record previously held by Obafemi Martins. With 25 goals in European club competitions, including 12 in the UEFA Champions League and 10 in the Europa League, Osimhen is now Nigeria’s most prolific scorer on the European stage.

Ajax head coach John Heitinga had earlier praised Osimhen as a blend of Didier Drogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, highlighting the striker’s rare combination of power, speed, and skill. “He combines strength and speed with incredible physical presence,” Heitinga remarked, underscoring the challenge his team faced in containing the star forward.

This victory propels Galatasaray higher in the Champions League group standings, showcasing their strength and ambition as they chase further European success.