‘I love this stadium’ – Victor Osimhen opens up on emotional return to former club

The 27-year-old loanee admitted his deep affection for Lille’s home ground after picking up the official UEFA Player of the Match award

Osimhen refused to celebrate his brilliant second-half goal out of respect before wishing his former employers the absolute best for the season

Nigerian icon Victor Osimhen enjoyed a highly emotional homecoming on Tuesday night, combining a world-class performance on the pitch with deep mutual respect off it as Galatasaray secured a crucial continental victory in France.

Osimhen was the star of the show at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, torturing the host’s defence for over 80 minutes and netting a sensational right-footed strike to put the game beyond reach.

Victor Osimhen after his goal against former club Lille. His elite movement and tactical discipline twice helped the Turkish giants fight back from behind, a feat that earned him the prestigious UEFA Player of the Match accolade.

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POTM: 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐎𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐡𝐞𝐧! 🌟 #LOSCvGS #UCL https://t.co/bIFCbKUvyT

Speaking to TRT via UEFA after the final whistle, the former Lille striker could not hide his fondness for the stadium where he truly announced himself to European football during the 2019/20 season.

“I love this stadium a lot,” Osimhen stated warmly. “We played a tough match. I’m very happy for our team and the victory. I wish Lille all the best too.”

The French supporters showed their immense appreciation for their former hero. When Okan Buruk substituted his star man with seven minutes remaining to protect his fitness ahead of the upcoming domestic derby, the entire stadium rose to its feet to hand the Nigerian legend a resounding standing ovation.

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Osimhen’s European heroics capped off a legendary stretch for Nigerian international talents across the continent’s elite competitions.

With his scoring boots firmly back on and his elite mentality on full display, Osimhen has ensured that Galatasaray head back to Istanbul with their continental ambitions completely revitalized.