Karan: Osimhen’s Entry Changed Galatasaray’s Game Against Kasımpaşa

Former Galatasaray striker Ümit Karan has praised Victor Osimhen’s impact after the Nigerian forward came off the bench in Galatasaray’s 3-1 victory over Kasımpaşa in the Turkish Süper Lig on Friday.

Osimhen returned to action after 35 days out, entering the game in the 77th minute with the score at 1-1 after Kasımpaşa had cancelled out Galatasaray’s first-half lead.

Speaking on the SporON YouTube channel, Karan said the Nigerian’s introduction transformed the contest, with his presence making Galatasaray more threatening despite the hosts playing with 10 men.

‘Osimhen effect… After Osimhen entered, the match started to be played 11 versus 11. As the black bull entered the game from the side of the field, everyone said, ‘Our nightmare has come,’’ Karan said.

The former striker’s comments underline the importance of Osimhen to Galatasaray, who will hope the Nigerian regains full fitness ahead of their upcoming European fixture against Barcelona.

Osimhen’s return is also timely for the Turkish champions as they seek to maintain their domestic momentum while preparing for the challenge of facing the Spanish giants.