Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen scored a breathtaking overhead kick goal for Galatasaray in their 3-0 victory over Antalyaspor. The Super Eagles star, who recently returned from injury, came on as a substitute in the final moments of the match at the Antalya Stadium and sealed the win with a goal that has the football world buzzing.
According to NTV, Osimhen’s sensational strike is one of only two goals in football history to surpass the 2.30-meter height mark. The other belongs to none other than Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored an overhead kick from 2.38 meters in the Champions League quarterfinal against Juventus in April 2018.
Osimhen’s goal, while slightly lower at 2.32 meters, is a mere 0.06 meters shy of Ronaldo’s record-setting effort. The Nigerian’s incredible feat of agility and technique has drawn comparisons to the Portuguese superstar, with many hailing Osimhen as a rising talent in the world of football.
The 24-year-old striker, who joined Galatasaray from Napoli in the summer transfer window, has been in scintillating form for the Turkish giants. His latest goal, which came from a perfectly weighted free-kick by teammate Hakim Ziyech, showcased Osimhen’s strength, timing, and finishing ability.
As the ball floated into the penalty area, Osimhen outmuscled his marker and launched himself into the air, connecting with the ball at the peak of his jump to send a powerful overhead kick past the helpless Antalyaspor goalkeeper. The stunning strike left fans and pundits alike in awe, with many taking to social media to express their admiration for the Nigerian’s talent.
Osimhen’s goal not only secured the three points for Galatasaray but also kept them at the top of the Turkish Super Lig table. The Istanbul-based club has been in fine form this season, with Osimhen’s contributions playing a significant role in their success.
The Nigerian international has already scored eight goals in just six appearances for Galatasaray, including a hat-trick in his debut match against Kasimpasa. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with several top European clubs reportedly monitoring his progress.
Osimhen’s overhead kick against Antalyaspor is not the first time he has scored a spectacular goal. During his time at Napoli, he was known for his acrobatic finishes and his ability to score from difficult angles. However, his latest effort may be his most impressive to date, given the height and technique involved.
The goal has also drawn comparisons to other famous overhead kicks in football history, such as Gareth Bale’s strike for Real Madrid against Liverpool in the 2018 Champions League final and Wayne Rooney’s effort for Manchester United against Manchester City in 2011.
While Osimhen’s goal may not have quite reached the heights of Ronaldo’s record-breaking effort, it is still a remarkable achievement that showcases the Nigerian’s immense talent and potential. At just 24 years of age, Osimhen has already established himself as one of the most exciting young strikers in world football, with many predicting a bright future for the Super Eagles star.
As for Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s overhead kick against Juventus remains one of the most iconic goals in Champions League history. The Portuguese forward’s strike, which came in the 64th minute of the quarterfinal second leg, helped Real Madrid secure a 3-0 win and progress to the semifinals.
Ronaldo’s goal was widely regarded as one of the greatest ever scored in the competition, with even Juventus fans rising to their feet to applaud the Real Madrid star’s effort. The strike was later voted as the UEFA Goal of the Season for 2017-18.
While Osimhen may not have quite matched Ronaldo’s record, his goal against Antalyaspor is still a moment of individual brilliance that will live long in the memory of Galatasaray fans. The Nigerian striker’s performances this season have already earned him a place in the hearts of the club’s supporters, who will be hoping to see many more spectacular goals from their new hero in the coming months and years.
For now, though, Osimhen will be focused on helping Galatasaray maintain their position at the top of the Super Lig table and secure silverware come the end of the season. With his incredible talent and eye for the spectacular, there is no doubt that the Nigerian striker will continue to make headlines and inch ever closer to the records set by the greats of the game.
