Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen made history on Wednesday night as he powered Galatasaray to a 3-0 triumph over Trabzonspor in the Turkish Cup final, setting two remarkable records in the process and further solidifying his reputation as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards.
The 26-year-old Super Eagles star struck twice in the final, taking his tally to 35 goals for the season — a feat that officially crowns him as Galatasaray’s highest-scoring foreign player in a single season. Osimhen also became the first foreign player to score a brace for the club in a Turkish Cup final, etching his name in the annals of the Istanbul-based club’s illustrious history.
Dominance on the Big Stage
Galatasaray entered the final under pressure to end the season with silverware, and Osimhen rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion. With Trabzonspor struggling to contain the Nigerian forward’s relentless pace and clinical finishing, Osimhen opened the scoring midway through the first half before doubling the lead shortly after the break.
The third goal, a late effort from winger Barış Alper Yılmaz, sealed the emphatic 3-0 victory and sparked celebrations at the Atatürk Olympic Stadium.
Speaking to the media after the final whistle, Osimhen expressed his joy at the achievement and thanked the fans and coaching staff for their support throughout the campaign.
“This season has been an incredible journey. I’m grateful to Galatasaray for believing in me, and I’m proud to have made history here. Records are great, but winning the Cup with this amazing group of players is the most special part,” Osimhen said.
Breaking a 23-Year Record
Osimhen’s 35-goal haul eclipsed the 34-goal record previously set by Brazilian striker Mario Jardel during the 2000–01 season — a benchmark that had stood unchallenged for over two decades.
Jardel’s prolific season two decades ago is still fondly remembered by Galatasaray fans, but Osimhen’s latest heroics have sparked comparisons between the two forwards, with many fans hailing the Nigerian as a modern legend in the making.
Club legend and former captain Emre Belözoğlu was full of praise for Osimhen, stating:
“Victor is a phenomenon. To break a record that stood for 23 years, and in your debut season, shows just how talented and determined he is. He’s written his name into our history forever.”
A Historic Cup Final Double
Osimhen’s two goals in the final also set another unique milestone — he became the first foreign player to ever score twice for Galatasaray in a Turkish Cup final. It was a moment that underscored his value to the team and his big-game temperament.
Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk lauded the striker’s mentality, calling him a “leader on and off the pitch.”
“Victor is a true professional and a match-winner. We brought him here to deliver in the biggest moments, and tonight he proved why he’s one of the best in the world. Breaking two records in a cup final — what more can you say?” said Buruk.
From Naples to Istanbul: A Season to Remember
Osimhen joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan from Serie A giants Napoli in the summer of 2024, a move that raised eyebrows across Europe. However, the decision has proven to be a masterstroke for the Turkish champions.
Despite adapting to a new league and culture, Osimhen settled quickly in Istanbul, forming a devastating partnership with creative midfielder Kerem Aktürkoğlu and winger Dries Mertens. His goals have powered Galatasaray to domestic dominance and earned him cult-hero status among the supporters.
Now, with the season concluded and two major personal milestones under his belt, speculation is intensifying about where Osimhen will be playing next season.
Transfer Buzz Grows
Reports across Europe suggest that several elite clubs are monitoring Osimhen’s situation, with Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Juventus all believed to be considering bids for the Nigerian this summer.
With Napoli still holding his long-term contract, Galatasaray’s chances of keeping the forward permanently appear slim, although club president Dursun Özbek has publicly stated they will do “everything possible” to retain his services.
“Victor has been a revelation for us. Of course, many clubs want him — he’s world-class. But we’ll fight to keep him here. He’s become part of the Galatasaray family,” Özbek told Turkish media after the Cup final.
Osimhen, however, remained coy about his future, choosing to focus on the season’s accomplishments rather than the transfer speculation.
“Right now, I just want to celebrate this win with my teammates. What happens next will be decided in the coming weeks. I love this club and the fans — they welcomed me with open arms,” he said.
Legacy and Impact
Regardless of what the future holds, Osimhen’s impact in a single season has been nothing short of transformational for Galatasaray. Beyond the goals and records, his leadership, work ethic, and ability to deliver in crucial matches have made him a fan favorite.
Turkish football analysts have also praised the striker’s influence on the league’s international profile, suggesting that his presence has brought renewed attention and commercial appeal to the Süper Lig.
“Osimhen has brought eyes from England, Italy, and Nigeria to the Turkish league. His performances have boosted not just Galatasaray, but the whole league’s credibility,” said former national team coach Fatih Terim.
Conclusion
Victor Osimhen’s unforgettable night in the Turkish Cup final marked the culmination of a record-breaking season that has elevated both player and club to new heights. With 35 goals, a historic brace in the final, and two major club records shattered, the Super Eagles forward has written a golden chapter in Galatasaray’s history.
Whether he remains in Istanbul or moves on to a new European challenge, Osimhen’s legacy in Turkish football is firmly secured — a testament to talent, hard work, and an unrelenting desire to succeed on the biggest stage.
