Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has revealed the toughest defenders he has faced in the course of his career, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 27-year-old striker has enjoyed a successful career across several top European leagues, playing in Belgium, Germany, France, Italy and now Turkey and he has faced a number of elite defenders along the way.
Osimhen played a key role in helping Napoli end their 33-year wait for the Serie A title during the 2022-23 season. He finished as the league’s top scorer with 26 goals, won the Best Striker award, and was named in the Serie A Team of the Season.
Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen vs Liverpool. Copyright: IMAGO
The Nigerian forward initially joined Galatasaray on loan in 2024 before completing a permanent move in a Turkish record €75 million deal last summer. Since arriving in Turkey, he has continued his prolific form, scoring 59 goals across all competitions, including a brace last weekend that helped Galatasaray secure a fourth consecutive Super Lig title.
Osimhen names Calvin Bassey and Cristian Romero as most difficult defenders
Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen has built a reputation as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards, but despite that, some defenders have made life difficult for him on the pitch.
One of those players is Super Eagles teammate Calvin Bassey, who has been a regular for Nigeria since 2022 and won both bronze and silver medals at the Africa Cup of Nations alongside Osimhen.
Super Eagles star Calvin Bassey. Photo by Segun Ogunfeyitimi Copyright: xshengolpixsxIMAGO
Speaking during an interview with River Rhodes, Osimhen praised the Fulham defender’s strength and quality.
“I’ll say Calvin Bassey. First of all, in training. That guy is very strong, really very strong. I think currently now he’s actually the best defender in Africa and of course one of the best defenders in the Premier League”, Osimhen said, as shared on Instagram.
The Galatasaray striker also identified Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero as another player who proved difficult to play against.
Osimhen faced Romero three times during the 2020-21 Serie A season when he played for Napoli and the Argentine represented Atalanta.
Although the Nigerian striker scored in Napoli’s 4-1 victory over Atalanta in October 2020, he struggled to find the net in later meetings and was even forced off after a collision with Romero during Napoli’s 4-2 defeat in February 2021.
Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur tussles with Lyle Foster of Burnley for the ball. Copyright: Imago
“Also, Romero of Spurs – he’s actually a very intelligent defender. He gave me a hard time when we met. I think I’ve faced a couple of world class defenders, but I think the hardest is those two that I mentioned when I talk about the very best I’ve played with.”
Victor Osimhen makes history at Galatasaray
Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has become a fan favourite since his arrival at Galatasaray, given his impressive performances and strong connection with the supporters.
He scored a brace in last weekend’s win over Antalyaspor which took his tally to 22 goals for the season and helped Galatasaray secure another Super Lig crown.
The title also saw Osimhen equal former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo as the Nigerian player with the most Turkish league titles.
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray and his daughter celebrates the end of the match with the fans. Copyright: xBurakxBasturkxImago
The former Napoli forward has attracted interest from several top European clubs ahead of the summer transfer window. Although he will miss Galatasaray’s final game of the season through suspension due to yellow card accumulation, the Turkish champions are determined to keep him at the club.
Despite the growing transfer speculation, a final decision on Osimhen’s future is expected in the coming weeks.
