Victor Osimhen scores as Galatasaray fall to Ajax in Europa League
Victor Osimhen was on target for Galatasaray, but his late strike was not enough to prevent a 2-1 defeat to Ajax in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night at the Johan Cruijff Arena.
The result saw Ajax secure a place in the Europa League playoffs, leapfrogging the Turkish Super Lig leaders in the final group standings. Galatasaray, despite the loss, also progressed to the next round but saw their impressive 26-game unbeaten run come to an end.
Ajax Take Control Early
Bertrand Traore put Ajax ahead in the 23rd minute after reacting swiftly to a rebound from a Chuba Akpom shot that was initially saved by Galatasaray’s goalkeeper, Fernando Muslera. The Dutch side doubled their advantage 13 minutes into the second half when Kian Fitz-Jim finished off a quick counter-attack led by fullback Anton Gaael, who provided the assist after Galatasaray failed to clear their lines.
Osimhen’s Late Consolation
Nigerian international Osimhen had earlier squandered three good opportunities before finally making amends in stoppage time. The striker showed his predatory instincts by reacting quickest inside the six-yard box to slot home a consolation goal for the visitors.
Galatasaray, whose last defeat came against Swiss side Young Boys in the Champions League preliminary round back in August, created several chances to preserve their unbeaten streak but failed to capitalise. Substitute Michy Batshuayi also missed a golden opportunity to reduce the deficit earlier in the second half.
Ajax’s Tactical Edge
Ajax’s disciplined defensive display and clinical finishing proved decisive on the night. The match also saw 41-year-old goalkeeper Remko Pasveer wear the captain’s armband instead of usual skipper Jordan Henderson, leading to speculation about the former England international’s future at the club.
With this result, Ajax finished the group stage in 12th place, while Galatasaray settled for 14th. Both teams will now shift focus to the next phase of the competition, with Galatasaray looking to bounce back quickly from this setback.
