Victor Osimhen rescues Napoli with equalizer against Barcelona in Champions League clash
Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, rescued Napoli from defeat with the equalizer against Barcelona, to force a UEFA Champions League ROUND OF 16 first-leg draw in Naples.
Pre-match talks centered around the forwards availabilty for the match, and he did just what he had to do to save his new manager from a negative start.
Following his return from AFCON duty with the Super Eagles, Osimhen displayed his undeniable quality with a late equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw for Napoli against the formidable Spanish opposition.
The first-leg fixture took place at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Wednesday night.
Notably, it marked Napoli’s debut under new management, with Francesco Calzona taking over the reins following Walter Mazzarri’s departure.
Initially struggling to find their rhythm against the dominant Barcelona, Napoli faced an uphill battle in the opening exchanges.
Robert Lewandowski capitalized on Napoli’s vulnerability as he scored to put Barcelona ahead just before halftime.
However, Napoli refused to succumb to the pressure, gradually gaining momentum as the game progressed.
In a thrilling turn of events, Osimhen rose to the occasion, when he held off an opponent to control Anguissa’s pass to fire past the FC Barcelona goalkeeper in the 75th minute of the match.
That goal saved the night for the Italian champions who will head into the return leg at the Camp Nou in Spain level 1-1 on aggregate against Xavi’s FC Barcelona.
Osimhen was taken off immediately after his goal, as the club looks to get their star-man back to full-fitness.
