AFCON 2025
Victor Osimhen’s early penalty handed Galatasaray a 1-0 victory over Liverpool in Istanbul, marking one of the standout results of this season’s Champions League.
The decisive moment came in the 16th minute when Barış Alper Yılmaz was brought down inside the box. Osimhen stepped up and coolly converted, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.
Player of the Match: Victor Osimhen 🏆👍#UCL | #POTM pic.twitter.com/eIzPhyyE9v
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 30, 2025
The Nigerian striker, who joined Galatasaray in a blockbuster move from Napoli, underlined his status as a big-game player, later declaring: “They didn’t believe in us, but we are the greatest.”
Liverpool pushed hard for an equaliser, with Florian Wirtz and Mohamed Salah both going close. Arne Slot’s side thought they had a lifeline when a late penalty was awarded, but VAR overturned the decision. To compound their frustration, goalkeeper Alisson and striker Hugo Ekitike both picked up injuries.
Galatasaray’s defence, marshalled superbly by Davinson Sánchez, held firm under pressure, securing three priceless points. The win lifts the Turkish champions’ hopes of progressing from the league phase.
