UCL: Victor Osimhen’s goal against Barcelona with first goal of Calzona’s era

Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen returned to action for the first time since the conclusion of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and ignited the Napoli faithful with an equalizing goal against Barcelona.

Napoli began life under new coach Francesco Calzona by earning a spirited 1-1 draw with Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League last-16 first leg courtesy of Victor Osimhen’s second-half equalizer.

It was all Barcelona from the start, as 16-year-old Lamine Yamal stung Alex Meret’s gloves, becoming the youngest player ever to feature in a Champions League knockout stage game.

The visitors had taken the lead on the hour-mark courtesy of Poland striker Robert Lewandowski’s 93rd career goal in the Champions League from Pedri’s delightful through ball.

However, the Super Eagles striker received Frank Anguissa’s pass inside the penalty area and turned his marker expertly to fire home from 14 yards with 15 minutes of regular time, remaining with his first shot of the night.

The clash between the Italian champions Napoli and Spanish champions Barcelona is now finely poised after a cagey draw in the first leg in Naples with all to play for in the second leg on March 12.