Osimhen makes late cameo to hand Galatasaray boost ahead of Liverpool clash

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen made his long awaited return from injury as Galatasaray defeated Alanyaspor 1-0 to extend their perfect start to the season.

Galatasaray secured their seventh consecutive league victory with a narrow 1-0 win over Alanyaspor, a result that provides a much-needed morale boost following their recent 5-1 drubbing against Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League.

Argentine forward Mauro Icardi scored the decisive goal with a sharp finish in just the 22nd minute. Despite creating several chances that should have put the game out of reach, Galatasaray failed to find a second goal.

They were also indebted to goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakır, who proved crucial by denying Ogundu twice in one-on-one situations to keep the clean sheet intact.

Osimhen returns to action for Galatasaray

The most significant moment of the match came late on. Manager Okan Buruk was delighted to introduce Victor Osimhen in the 84th minute.

This was the 26-year-old's first appearance since suffering an injury while on international duty with Nigeria.

Osimhen, who has scored two goals in three appearances this season, is central to Galatasaray's European ambitions.

His return to full fitness will be a major boost as the Turkish champions prepare for their crucial Champions League tie against English side Liverpool next week.

Galatasaray's dominance in the league means Success this season will largely be measured by their performance in Europe, and Osimhen's fitness could be the determining factor.