Victor Osimhen scored twice, including a stoppage-time equaliser, as Turkish champions Galatasaray were held to a draw by newly promoted Corum in their opening Trendyol Super League match.
The Nigeria striker’s intervention prevented Galatasaray from beginning their title defence with defeat after they found themselves behind against a determined Corum side on home soil.
Osimhen made his season debut with a performance that immediately underlined his importance to the champions, scoring twice to rescue a point for his team.
Galatasaray had struggled to break down their opponents for much of the match and were unable to find a way back into the contest until Osimhen took responsibility in front of goal.
The 27-year-old reduced the deficit before producing the decisive moment in the 90th minute, finding the net again to level the score and complete his brace.
The two goals also put Osimhen at the top of the Super League’s scoring standings after the opening round of matches.
His late contribution ensured Galatasaray avoided a disappointing start to their campaign, while Corum were left to settle for a draw after coming close to securing what would have been a notable result against the reigning Turkish champions.
For Osimhen, however, the match represented an ideal personal beginning to his latest season in Turkey.
The Nigerian striker is now entering his third season with Galatasaray after joining the club from Napoli in 2024. Since arriving in Turkey, he has established himself as one of the team’s most important players and has consistently produced goals.
His first season in the yellow and red was particularly prolific. Osimhen scored 37 goals and provided seven assists, immediately making a major impact after his move from Italy.
He followed that campaign with another strong season, scoring 22 goals and registering six assists.
Those figures have established a clear pattern of consistency for the striker, who has continued to contribute heavily despite uncertainty surrounding his future during successive transfer windows.
Transfer speculation has surrounded Osimhen in recent summers, but his performances have remained consistent.
His latest display against Corum provided another example of his ability to influence matches, particularly when Galatasaray are under pressure.
With the champions struggling to find a route back into the game, Osimhen became the player who changed the outcome. His first goal gave Galatasaray renewed hope before his late second strike completed the comeback.
The result means Galatasaray will have to settle for a point from their opening fixture, but Osimhen’s individual performance gives the club an early reason for optimism.
His immediate return to the scoresheet also sends a warning to the rest of the Super League, with the Nigeria international already leading the scoring chart after the first matchday.
For Galatasaray, the draw was far from the ideal start to their campaign, particularly against a newly promoted side at home. But Osimhen’s two goals ensured the champions did not leave the opening fixture empty-handed.
The striker’s ability to produce in crucial moments remains one of Galatasaray’s biggest strengths. His record since arriving from Napoli demonstrates why he has become such a key figure for the Turkish side.
With another season now under way, Osimhen has wasted little time in reminding the league of his goalscoring threat.
After two successful campaigns in Turkey, his latest season has begun with another brace and a dramatic late equaliser.
