Victor Osimhen is optimistic about featuring in Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League clash against Sporting Lisbon next week, despite picking up a groin injury in Friday’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Istanbul Başakşehir.
The Super Eagles striker was forced off in the 33rd minute after scoring a superb opener, but he has moved to calm fears over his fitness.
“I have nothing, I didn’t want to risk myself. If our coach deems it appropriate for the Sporting Lisbon match, I want to be on the field,” Osimhen said after the match.
Osimhen had given the Turkish champions the lead with a powerful strike into the top corner, set up by Lucas Torreira, before discomfort forced his early exit. Barış Alper Yılmaz came on as his replacement.
Galatasaray later confirmed that strain and pain had been detected in Osimhen’s right adductor muscle group and that treatment had already begun. The club said advanced examinations, including an MRI scan, were being carried out on both Osimhen and teammate Mario Lemina, with results expected on Sunday.
The injury had sparked concern about the Nigerian forward’s availability for the Champions League return, but his positive comments have raised hopes of a rapid recovery. His presence would provide a significant boost for Galatasaray as they prepare for the Portuguese side.
Osimhen’s fitness will also be closely monitored by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
