Victor Osimhen was named UEFA Champions League Player of the Match after scoring in Galatasaray's 4–2 victory over Lille in France on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
The Nigerian striker scored in the 61st minute to help Galatasaray secure their first points of this season's Champions League league phase.
His goal gave the Turkish side a two goal advantage after an entertaining contest in which both teams scored twice before half time.
Osimhen's recognition was confirmed by the official UEFA Champions League account, adding another highlight to his performance against his former club.
Osimhen Delivers at a Crucial Moment
Galatasaray made a fast start, with Yunus Akgün opening the scoring in the second minute.
Lille responded through Soriba Diaoune, who scored twice in the first half to put the hosts ahead before Aleksey Batrakov equalised for the visitors.
Lucas Torreira then helped Galatasaray regain the lead shortly after the break. His effort was recorded as an own goal by Lille goalkeeper Berke Özer, who failed to keep the ball out following a corner.
Osimhen struck nine minutes later to make it 4–2, by combining with Barış Alper Yılmaz during a quick attacking move before finishing past Özer.
The goal proved decisive, giving Galatasaray a more comfortable advantage and leaving Lille with too much to do in the closing stages.
A Respectful Return to Lille
Osimhen's goal carried extra significance because he previously played for Lille during the 2019/20 season.
The Nigerian forward scored 18 goals in 38 appearances for the French club before moving to Napoli.
His performances in France helped establish him as a striker capable of competing at a high level in European football.
After scoring against his former team, Osimhen kept his celebration restrained and acknowledged the home supporters.
The gesture added a personal touch to an important European night, because Lille played a role in his career, but he was now leading the attack for a team competing against them for Champions League points.
Osimhen also received a warm reception from Lille supporters when he was substituted late in the match, and he responded by applauding the crowd.
Player of the Match Recognition for Osimhen
The Player of the Match award recognises an outstanding individual performance, and Osimhen's contribution included a goal that helped Galatasaray turn a narrow lead into a two goal cushion.
His finish was particularly important because Lille had twice found a way back into the match during the first half, and by scoring Galatasaray's fourth goal, Osimhen helped his team manage the closing stages with greater security.
The award also provides a useful distinction between different match assessments.
For Osimhen, the recognition followed a performance that combined an important goal with a memorable return to a former club.
Galatasaray Get Their Champions League Campaign Moving
The victory was significant for Galatasaray, who had lost their opening two league phase matches against Sporting CP and Barcelona.
Beating Lille gave them their first points of the campaign and offered a much needed boost after a difficult start.
Lille, meanwhile, remained without a point after three matches.
Osimhen's goal and Player of the Match recognition made him one of the central figures in Galatasaray's victory.
For Nigerian football supporters, it was another notable European performance from the Super Eagles striker, who helped his club secure a valuable away result while earning individual recognition