Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was in unstoppable form on Wednesday night, netting a stunning hat-trick to lead Galatasaray to a 3–0 victory over Ajax at the Johan Cruijff ArenA in the UEFA Champions League.
The Nigerian forward, who entered the match with three goals in the competition, delivered a masterclass in finishing to take his tally to six this season, moving to the top of the Champions League scorers’ chart.
After a tense first half that produced few chances, Osimhen broke the deadlock in the 59th minute with a powerful diving header from Leroy Sané’s precise cross.
The 25-year-old doubled the lead just minutes later, converting a penalty awarded after Youri Baas handled the ball in the area. The decision was confirmed by VAR, and Osimhen made no mistake from the spot, calmly sending Ajax goalkeeper Remko Pasveer the wrong way.
He completed his hat-trick in the 78th minute, again from the penalty spot, after substitute Gerald Alders was penalised for another handball.
The comprehensive win marked Galatasaray’s biggest European triumph this season and their best start to a Champions League campaign in history, with nine points from four games.
Ajax, on the other hand, remain rooted to the bottom of the group, having suffered four consecutive defeats.
Galatasaray will next travel to face Belgian champions Union St. Gilloise, while Ajax will look to salvage pride when they host Jose Mourinho’s Benfica in their next fixture.
