Victor Osimhen played the hero once again, netting twice to fire Galatasaray to a crucial 2-1 victory over Rizespor on Monday night.

But beyond his match-winning performance, a post-game moment involving the Galatasaray goalkeeper left fans buzzing, Footballrover reports.

Victor Osimhen mask celebration sparks reactions

Returning to action after missing Galatasaray’s Europa League loss to AZ Alkmaar, Osimhen made an instant impact.

After a tight first half, the Nigerian striker broke the deadlock in the 47th minute, rising highest to nod home Przemyslaw Frankowski’s precise cross.

Rizespor hit back in the 54th minute through Abdullahi Sowe, setting up a tense finale.

But Osimhen delivered once again, redirecting a header into the net in the 86th minute to seal a dramatic win for Galatasaray.

Speaking after the match, Osimhen praised his team’s effort and the support from fans.

“I think it was a very important and very difficult match. We won, we think we won in a way we deserved. I want to congratulate the whole team. I also want to thank our fans. This victory and their support gave us a lot of morale. We are continuing our winning streak in this way,” Osimhen told the club website.

Galatasaray goalkeeper’s surprise tribute

While Osimhen’s brace stole the spotlight, another moment grabbed attention after the final whistle.

Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, the team’s captain, celebrated by wearing Osimhen’s signature face mask—a lighthearted yet symbolic gesture that thrilled the Nigerian star.

“I had given my mask to celebrate with the fans at that time. I came back and saw that he had already put it on. He is a great person beyond being a captain. He is a very important person for us. He had a very important role in this victory. I will rest my voice for a while and it will get better soon. My voice will come back to itself,” Osimhen added.

Galatasaray’s victory extended their lead at the top of the Turkish Super Lig, moving six points clear of Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce.

The two title contenders will face off in a highly anticipated showdown next Monday.

Osimhen’s remarkable form continues, with 14 league goals and four assists in 18 appearances.

Across all competitions, he boasts an impressive 24 goal contributions in 24 matches.

Fans will look to him once more when Galatasaray take on AZ Alkmaar on Thursday, needing a miracle comeback after their first-leg setback.

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Last Updated on February 18, 2025 8:35 am by footballrover