Lille’s Alexsandro Ribeiro relishing Victor Osimhen battle

Lille defender Alexsandro Ribeiro says he is looking forward to facing Victor Osimhen when the French club host Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League.

The matchday three fixture at Stade Pierre-Mauroy will bring together two teams still searching for their first points in the competition after defeats in their opening two matches.

Osimhen’s return to Lille will add further interest to the game. The Nigeria striker played for the club during the 2019/2020 season before making a high-profile move to Napoli.

Ribeiro accepts that containing Osimhen will be a demanding task, but described the meeting as a personal contest between the two players.

“Yes, I’ll be playing against Osimhen. It’s going to be a tough match for us. It will be a bit of a battle between the two of us,” the Brazilian told the media ahead of the game.

The defender is also pleased with the progress he has made this season after injuries restricted his involvement last year.

Ribeiro said returning to regular action had given him confidence and credited Lille for helping him recover.

“I’m back on the pitch. It feels great. My injury last year was different; I couldn’t play many games. I’m showing good progress this season, and I want to continue like that. The club have also made a big contribution to this,” he added.