Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen was named as one of the standout performers in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 first leg.
According to the UEFA Champions League official account on X, the current African player of the year made the cut for the team of the week, alongside 2 other attackers (Robert Lewandowski and Marko Arnautovic) in a 5-3-2 formation.
Osimhen’s goal
The former Lille striker scored in the 75th minute from an Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa pass, outmuscling Barcelona defender Iniko Martinez to beat Andre Ter Stegen with a composed finish, low into the corner. The goal that cancelled out Robert Lewandowski’s 60th-minute goal, putting Barcelona ahead, was also nominated for the goal of the week award.
It was a memorable return to action for the 25-year-old after leading Nigeria to the AFCON final. By scoring his second Champions League goal this season, he proved why he is regarded as one of the best strikers around.
Gundogan praises Osimhen
Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan had positive comments about the Napoli striker, likening him to Lewandowski. He said:
“Both are great strikers, they know where the goal is and how to score, they are good at finishing,” Gundogan was quoted by Tribal Football. “I think Robert adapts well to our game, he knows how to control the ball in difficult conditions. “Osimhen knows how to be aggressive when he has a player on him, but also if they have different qualities they are two world-class footballers.”, as per Daily report
Osimhen, so far in this season, has scored 9 goals and provided 3 assists in 19 games.
