Champion League
Analyst Serdar Ali Çelikler hails Osimhen’s defensive work rate in Galatasaray win
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Prominent Turkish journalist and sports commentator Serdar Ali Çelikler has applauded Victor Osimhen for his exceptional defensive contribution in Galatasaray’s recent 3–1 UEFA Champions League victory over FK Bodø/Glimt.
While the Nigerian striker is best known for his prolific goal-scoring prowess, Çelikler stressed another side of his game — his tireless work rate, pressing, and defensive intelligence — which he said played a crucial role in disrupting the Norwegian side’s rhythm.
Speaking on his Neo Spor YouTube channel during post-match analysis, Çelikler commended Osimhen’s positioning, intensity, and willingness to track back, describing him as a “complete forward” whose influence extends far beyond finding the net.
“Galatasaray will be a thorn in the side of any team that tries to build from the back,” Çelikler said.
“Icardi doesn’t press as much, but Osimhen does. When Osimhen and Yunus Akgün play, the whole defensive burden doesn’t fall on Torreira.”
The analyst further noted that Osimhen’s involvement in both attack and defense reflected maturity and tactical discipline uncommon among elite strikers.
“Osimhen is Galatasaray’s striker, but also their first defender,” Çelikler added.
“He even made an assist — he won the ball from the center-back and set up Yunus Akgün’s goal. His energy and commitment lift the entire team.”
Çelikler concluded that Osimhen’s all-round display epitomized the fighting spirit and collective discipline that have defined Okan Buruk’s Galatasaray side this season, describing the Nigerian as “not just a scorer, but a leader in every sense.”
