Victor Osimhen was all smiles after firing Galatasaray to a 3–0 victory over Ajax in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night, with the Super Eagles striker netting all three goals to extend his remarkable scoring form.
The 26-year-old’s hat-trick not only secured Galatasaray’s fourth win in five matches but also elevated him to the top of the Champions League goalscoring chart with six goals, ahead of stars like Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and Lautaro Martinez.
Prior to the clash at the Johan Cruijff Arena, Osimhen had already set a new milestone as the Nigerian player with the most goals in Champions League history. His latest treble pushed his overall tally in European competitions to 25, surpassing Obafemi Martins’ long-standing record of 23.
“Galatasaray Prepared Well” — Osimhen
Reflecting on the team’s dominant display, Osimhen credited Galatasaray’s preparation and mental sharpness for their success.
“I generally think we deserve it,” he told the club’s official website.
“We knew what the opponent would do. We were mentally and psychologically well-prepared. I’m happy about the goals, of course, but I have to thank my teammates.
We’ll keep pushing at this pace. I believe we’ll be very happy at the end of the group stage because we’ll continue to work together.”
With six goals in just three matches, Osimhen now leads the Champions League Golden Boot race. When asked about his chances of finishing as the competition’s top scorer, the forward expressed confidence in his abilities and the strength of his team.
“Of course, I think I have the quality for something like that,” he said.
“But with the support of my teammates, I can do it. They like to give me the ball, like they did today. It’s a team effort, and with their support, it’s possible. I will fight for it.”
The Nigerian striker also made club history by becoming the first Galatasaray player to score braces in consecutive Champions League games, and only the second ever to score a hat-trick in Europe’s premier competition for the Turkish giants.
