Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has cautioned Galatasaray against underestimating Barcelona ahead of their UEFA Champions League encounter scheduled for Tuesday.
The Nigerian forward acknowledged the quality of the Spanish club’s players, describing the fixture as an important challenge for both teams and an opportunity for individual and collective development.
“Barcelona is a very big team. You shouldn’t be happy about playing against them, because they have very quality players. It will help us both collectively and individually. I’m happy for matches like this. It will be a great match,” Osimhen said, according to reports.
The 27-year-old made the remarks after returning from a groin injury in Galatasaray’s 3-1 victory over Kasımpaşa in the Turkish Super Lig on Friday.
Osimhen came on as a substitute and provided the assist for Mario Lemina’s stoppage-time goal, helping Galatasaray secure the win despite playing with 10 men following Lucas Torreira’s dismissal.
Abdülkerim Bardakcı had given Galatasaray the lead before Jesurun Rak-Sakyi equalised for Kasımpaşa. Barış Alper Yılmaz restored the hosts’ advantage in the 90th minute, while Lemina completed the scoring in added time.
The comeback appearance marked an encouraging return for Osimhen, who had been sidelined for several weeks with the injury.
Galatasaray will now turn their attention to Barcelona, with the Turkish side hoping to make the most of home advantage at RAMS Park in Istanbul.
Barcelona, managed by Hansi Flick, also head into the encounter after a strong domestic performance. Flick has warned his players to prepare carefully for the Turkish champions, identifying Osimhen as a major attacking threat and highlighting the intense atmosphere expected at the stadium.
The fixture presents Galatasaray with an opportunity to respond after opening their Champions League campaign with a 3-1 defeat away to Sporting CP. Barcelona began their campaign with a 5-1 win over Feyenoord.
Osimhen’s return provides Galatasaray with another attacking option as they prepare for one of their significant European tests of the season.
