Osimhen expected to be fit for Galatasaray's Champions League clash with Juventus

Osimhen could feature for Galatasaray on Wednesday
Osimhen could feature for Galatasaray on WednesdayREUTERS

Victor Osimhen has given Galatasaray a timely boost ahead of Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League clash after returning to training.

The Nigeria international missed action as the reigning Turkish champions fell to a shock 2-0 defeat at Konyaspor due to a knee concern. Also, his absence raised doubts about his availability for the crucial European tie.

However, Osimhen trained with the squad on Monday evening at the Kemerburgaz Metin Oktay Facilities, looking sharp and showing no signs of discomfort. 

A club source, who asked to remain anonymous, dismissed fears that the former African Player of the Year would miss the trip, expressing confidence that he will be ready as Okan Buruk’s side pushes for a place in the next round.

"Victor Osimhen missed our league match against Konyaspor over the weekend purely as a precaution, and the issue is not serious. We expect him to be in good condition for our upcoming Champions League fixture," he told Flashscore.

"He is one of our most important players, and we will do everything possible to ensure he is fit and available for the clash against Juventus because of the quality and presence he brings to the team. 

"Although the result from the first leg gives us confidence, we will approach this game with full focus and the mindset that we must fight hard for victory."

Shortly after Monday’s training session, the club confirmed the positive update on Osimhen through their official website.

"Galatasaray continued preparations for the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 play-off against Juventus with a training session at the Kemerburgaz Metin Oktay Facilities," it read.

"The session began with warm-up drills involving the ball before the players moved into 5-on-1 passing exercises in four groups. Under the guidance of head coach Okan Buruk, the workout ended with a practice match.

"Victor Osimhen trained fully with the squad as the team worked with a complete group of players."

Galatasaray are now set to wrap up their preparations with a final training session scheduled for 13:00 on Tuesday afternoon.

The Rams Park giants produced a stunning comeback last week to defeat 10-man Juventus in the seven-goal thriller. Trailing 2-1 at half-time, they scored four times in the second half to seal an emphatic victory.

Gabriel Sara had given the hosts an early lead after 15 minutes with a fine curling effort. However, Juventus responded through Teun Koopmeiners, who grabbed a quickfire brace, first reacting to a rebound before firing home a first-time strike to turn the game around.

The Turkish side came out strongly after the break as Noa Lang equalised from close range, while Davinson Sanchez powered in a header on the hour mark to put the hosts ahead. 

Juventus’ task became harder when Juan Cabal was sent off for a second booking, with Lang adding his second with a composed finish, while Sacha Boey capped a dominant display with a fifth goal.

Although Osimhen did not score, he played the full 90 minutes and contributed significantly. He registered three shots, one on target, 30 touches, completed 18 passes, and won three aerial duels.

If Galatasaray advance on aggregate, they will face either Liverpool or Tottenham in March’s Round of 16.

Shina Oludare
Shina OludareFlashscore

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