Osimhen targets another UEL clash with Dutch side

Victor Osimhen’s exceptional form in front of goal has been a game-changer for Galatasaray in this season’s UEFA Europa League.

Following his match-winning brace against Tottenham Hotspur in a dramatic 3-2 victory on Matchday 4, the Nigerian star looks to continue his scoring streak as the Lions face a challenging test against AZ Alkmaar at the AFAS Stadion on Thursday (today).

Osimhen has been pivotal to Galatasaray’s success, netting four crucial goals in just three Europa League appearances.

His goals have consistently secured points for Okan Buruk’s side, underlining his reputation as one of Europe’s most clinical forwards.

His brace against Spurs not only demonstrated his elite finishing ability but also solidified his position among the continent’s most in-form strikers.

Galatasaray enters the match in red-hot form, unbeaten in their last 14 games across all competitions, with an impressive 12 wins and two draws.

Their Europa League campaign reflects this dominance, as they have amassed 10 points from four matches, including memorable victories against PAOK (3-1), Elfsborg (4-3), and Spurs.

Domestically, Galatasaray leads the Turkish Super Lig by five points, thanks in part to Osimhen’s six goals in seven league matches.

However, their away form in Europe has raised some concerns. A 2-2 draw against RFS and an earlier Champions League qualifying loss to Young Boys reveal vulnerabilities on the road.

AZ Alkmaar, meanwhile, boasts an unbeaten record at home in European matches this season.

The Dutch side’s impressive 3-1 victory over Fenerbahce on Matchday 4 highlights their strength on home turf, where they have consistently excelled against Turkish opposition.

AZ’s Europa League journey, however, has been uneven, with back-to-back losses to Athletic Club and Spurs after a promising start.

Osimhen will be a focal point for Galatasaray’s attack, particularly against AZ’s defence, which has shown inconsistency.

His partnership with Galatasaray’s creative midfielders has been instrumental in driving the team’s success.

Combining pace, power, and clinical finishing, the 25-year-old forward poses a constant threat to defences, particularly those vulnerable to physical and agile attackers.

As Galatasaray aims to extend their unbeaten streak and cement their place in the Europa League knockout stages, Osimhen’s performance will be key to overcoming AZ Alkmaar’s formidable home advantage.

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.