In a thrilling UEFA Champions League playoff second-leg match on 25 February 2026, Victor Osimhen once again proved why he’s one of the most feared strikers in world football. The Nigerian forward scored a crucial goal in extra time that ultimately helped Galatasaray reach the Champions League round of 16 after their tie with Juventus in Turin.
Drama at the Allianz Stadium
The tie had already been intense thanks to the first leg in Istanbul, where Galatasaray took a commanding 5–2 lead. In the second leg, Juventus battled back in front of their home crowd, with Manuel Locatelli, Federico Gatti, and Weston McKennie scoring three goals to level the aggregate score at 5–5 and push the match into extra time.
Osimhen’s Decisive Extra-Time Goal
With the tie balanced and tension rising, Osimhen stepped up at the perfect moment. In the first period of extra time — around the 105th minute — he latched onto a well-timed pass and calmly finished past the Juventus goalkeeper, restoring Galatasaray’s aggregate lead. This strike ultimately proved to be the decisive goal of the tie.
This moment was not just another goal — it was a Champions League-defining strike that sealed Galatasaray’s progression with a 7–5 aggregate victory, despite losing the match 3–2 on the night. The Turkish club now advances to face one of Europe’s elite sides in the Round of 16.
Osimhen’s Performance and Importance
Osimhen’s finish highlighted his ability to perform under pressure on Europe’s biggest stages. Even after Juventus mounted an incredible comeback to force extra time, the Nigerian striker remained composed and clinical when it mattered most. His goal not only eliminated Juventus from the tournament but also marked another standout moment in his illustrious career.
What This Means for Galatasaray
Thanks to Osimhen’s heroics, Galatasaray will compete in the Champions League round of 16, where they are expected to face one of the tournament’s top clubs. This goal, coming in one of the most dramatic matches of the season, will be remembered by fans as a defining moment on the European stage.
