Kocaelispor vs Galatasaray: Relief for Chelle - Osimhen fit for Super Eagles’ FIFA World Cup Playoffs after shock defeat

Nigerian superstar Victor Osimhen endured a tough Super Lig encounter but remains fit and ready for the Super Eagles’ upcoming FIFA World Cup Playoffs after Galatasaray’s unexpected 1-0 defeat to newly promoted Kocaelispor on Sunday.

Osimhen played the full 90 minutes as Galatasaray struggled to break down the resilient Kocaelispor defense throughout the match. 

The defending champions suffered their first loss of the season in a game marked by controversy after the Nigerian netted a stunning goal. 

Late into the second half, Osimhen was denied what looked like a crucial equaliser when VAR ruled his teammate Sara offside, disallowing the goal and leaving fans and players frustrated.

The 26-year-old Nigerian striker now sits five goals behind his compatriot Paul Onuachu in the race for the Super Lig Golden Boot, with Onuachu having netted his eighth goal in Trabzonspor’s recent draw against Alanyaspor. 

Despite Galatasaray’s setback, Nigerians will take comfort in the fact that Osimhen emerged from the match injury-free, a decisive boost ahead of the highly anticipated World Cup Playoff showdown against Gabon.

While the defeat is a blow to Galatasaray’s title defense hopes, Osimhen’s fitness and full participation in the match send a positive signal to the Super Eagles camp. 

After a day to forget with the Lions, the Nigerian striker who will lead the squad released by Eric Chelle will now look to report for the national team, as the countdown to the crucial Playoffs approaches.