Victor Osimhen etched his name into the record books last night, becoming only the second Nigerian ever to score a hat-trick in the UEFA Champions League. His heroics powered Galatasaray to a dominant 3-0 away victory over a stunned Ajax.
The Nigerian striker delivered a classic number nine’s performance in Amsterdam, single-handedly deciding the match. He broke the deadlock in the 59th minute with a powerful header, before adding two more from the penalty spot to complete his historic treble.
This remarkable feat places him alongside Yakubu Ayegbeni, who was the first Nigerian to score a UCL hat-trick for Maccabi Haifa back in 2002. It also marks the first time a Galatasaray player has scored three in a Champions League match since Burak Yilmaz did it over a decade ago.
Osimhen’s first goal came from a brilliant cross, which he met with a towering header that gave the goalkeeper no chance. His second was a display of pure composure, waiting for the keeper to move before slotting home a penalty after a VAR review. He sealed the deal with another calmly taken spot-kick in the 78th minute, sending the goalie the wrong way.
The 26-year-old’s performance wasn’t just about history, it was about continuing his incredible form. He has now scored a astonishing 12 goals in his last eight European games for the Turkish club. This tally includes important goals against teams like Tottenham and Liverpool.
With this hat-trick, Osimhen further solidifies his place as Nigeria’s most prolific scorer in Champions League history, moving his total to 15 goals. He also surpassed Obafemi Martins to become Nigeria’s all-time top scorer in UEFA club competitions. His 50th appearance for Galatasaray was one to truly remember, pushing his team closer to a first knockout stage appearance in over a decade.