It was indeed an exciting Europa League clash at the Johan Cruijff Arena as two Nigerian stars, Victor Osimhen and Chuba Akpom, were at the heart of the thrilling encounter between Ajax and Galatasaray.
While Ajax emerged victorious, breaking Galatasaray’s 26-match unbeaten streak, both Osimhen and Akpom displayed their best in a game that ended2-1, Footballrover reports.
Here’s how the drama unfolded.
Akpom’s Impact: Assist and goal contributions in Europa League
The Super Eagles prospect had a memorable night in Amsterdam, despite not starting the match.
After being called into action just 12 minutes into the game due to an injury to Mika Godts, he quickly made his presence felt.
In the 23rd minute, the Nigerian forward provided his first Europa League assist, setting up Bertrand Traore, whose rebound shot gave Ajax a 1-0 lead.
This assist added to his impressive tally of 10 goal contributions this season, which includes four goals in the competition.
Osimhen’s consolation: Late goal not enough for Galatasaray
Victor Osimhen had his chances to put Galatasaray ahead earlier in the match.
In the 18th minute, a brilliant cross from Baris Alper Yilmaz found Osimhen, but his header from close range narrowly missed the target.
Ajax’s second-half counterattack sealed the deal with Kian Fitz-Jim’s goal in the 58th minute.
Though Osimhen scored a late consolation goal in stoppage time, it wasn’t enough to deny Ajax their 2-1 victory.
It was the fourth consecutive Europa League game in which the Napoli loanee found the back of the net.
However, Ajax’s win ended Galatasaray’s unbeaten streak of 153 days—five months of dominance—bringing an end to their run that started in August 2024.
While Victor’s late strike was a bright spot for Galatasaray, the win earned Ajax the bragging rights in this crucial Europa League fixture.
Both teams have now secured spots in the Europa League playoffs, but it was Ajax’s historic victory that stole headlines.
Footballrover understands that Chuba is drawing interest from several clubs, including Fiorentina, Lille, Leicester City, and Marseille, with a loan deal including an option to buy on the table.
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