Nigerian striker’s derby winner for Galatasaray boosts Champions League confidence while Barça monitor him as potential Lewandowski successor.

Victor Osimhen scored the decisive goal as Galatasaray defeated Besiktas 1-0, ending the hosts’ 18-match unbeaten run and maintaining a seven-point lead over Fenerbahce in the Turkish Super Lig title race.

The Nigerian striker’s performance in the Istanbul derby has boosted Galatasaray’s confidence ahead of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 first-leg clash against Liverpool.

Osimhen’s first-half header — his 11th league goal of the season — sealed the victory and extended his goal-contribution streak to eight consecutive league appearances.

During that run, the forward has recorded eight goals and four assists, equalling the longest such streak of his professional career, which he previously achieved during his time at Napoli between January and February 2023.

Although Osimhen had initially expressed caution following the Champions League draw, he now believes Galatasaray will approach the clash with Liverpool in strong form.

“It’s beautiful to play this type of team in the Champions League. Of course, it gives us some sort of satisfaction knowing that we are playing one of the best teams in the world,” he said.

“I think with the way we played, with the strength and togetherness we showed on the pitch, even after going a man down, we showed great qualities. We will carry this momentum into the next Champions League game and give everything.”

The Nigerian international has been one of Galatasaray’s key performers in the Champions League this season, recording seven goals and two assists in eight appearances.

He also scored the decisive goal in Galatasaray’s 1-0 victory over Liverpool during the group stage earlier in the competition.

Meanwhile, reports from The Athletic indicate that Osimhen is among the strikers admired by Barcelona’s hierarchy as the club prepares for the possible departure of Robert Lewandowski at the end of the season.