‘Players are sponges’ - Former Super Eagles prospect hailed for sinking Osimhen and Galatasaray

Monaco’s coach, Sebastien Pocognoli, has showered praise on Folarin Balogun after the striker’s decisive goal secured a 1-0 victory over Galatasaray, dealing a significant blow to the Turkish champions’ aspirations in the group stage.

Balogun, once an Arsenal forward and a player once eyed by Nigeria’s national team, proved his mettle with a clinical strike in the 68th minute. 

The goal followed sustained pressure from a corner, culminating in a perfectly worked move that broke the deadlock and sealed the win.

Galatasaray endured their second straight defeat after a loss to Union Saint-Gilloise. While Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen returned to the lineup, expecting to ignite his team’s charge but struggled to make an impact amid Monaco’s disciplined defence.

The match started as a cautious tactical battle, with few scoring chances in the first half. 

Galatasaray’s goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakır kept his side in the game with some key saves, but could not prevent Balogun’s strike from deciding the encounter.

Pocognoli praised his striker’s attitude and work ethic, saying, “Players are sponges. If you’re nervous on the sideline, they will feel it. Balo does work off the ball, which is very important for us.” 

“He responded after the misses, and I am very happy for him. It shows his strength of character; it shows that he can get back up.”

He also emphasised the team’s unity and resolve, adding, “The moment of togetherness with the fans at the end was a very positive sign. I won’t allow my team or myself to let up, even if it hasn’t been easy since I arrived as manager. I am convinced that we will get there by building on this match and bringing about a positive spiral.”

With this win, Monaco climbs level with Galatasaray on nine points in their Champions League group, though the Turkish side still holds the upper hand on the table. 

Balogun’s performance, however, marks him as a rising tactical genius to watch in Europe.