Osimhen makes history with hat-trick as Galatasaray defeat Ajax

‎Boluwatife Kehinde
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‎Victor Osimhen made history on Wednesday night, becoming only the second Nigerian ever to score a hat-trick in the UEFA Champions League as Galatasaray cruised to a commanding 3–0 victory over Ajax.
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‎The Super Eagles forward delivered a masterclass in finishing, converting two penalties and scoring once from open play to inspire the Turkish champions’ impressive European run.
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‎After a cagey first half, Osimhen broke the deadlock in the 59th minute. He doubled the advantage just seven minutes later after a VAR review confirmed a handball in the Ajax area. The Nigerian completed his historic treble in the 78th minute with another well-taken penalty.
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‎With the feat, Osimhen joins Yakubu Ayegbeni as the only Nigerians to ever record a Champions League hat-trick.
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‎The former African Footballer of the Year continues his sensational form, netting 12 goals in his last eight appearances for Galatasaray in European competitions.
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‎His performance also cemented his status as Nigeria’s all-time top scorer in the Champions League with 15 goals, surpassing Obafemi Martins’ previous record of 10.
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‎The match marked Osimhen’s 50th outing for Galatasaray and his 20th in the Champions League, bringing him just one game shy of equalling the Nigerian record for UCL appearances, currently held by Victor Ikpeba and Celestine Babayaro.
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‎In total, Osimhen’s 25 goals in UEFA club competitions now make him Nigeria’s leading scorer in European tournaments.
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‎Speaking to Galatasaray TV after the game, Osimhen said:
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‎“We have a goal and a vision. We understand the level of performance required in the Champions League. It won’t be easy, but we’ll take it step by step. We have the quality to challenge any team.”
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‎Osimhen’s latest exploits place him at the top of this season’s Champions League scoring chart, having also found the net against Liverpool and scored twice versus Bodo/Glimt.