Osimhen shines as Galatasaray beat PAOK in Europa League

Galatasaray and Victor Osimhen started their UEFA Europa League with a 3-1 victory over PAOK at the RAMS Park. Galatasaray needed less than 20 seconds to trouble the Greek team as Osimhen headed inches over the crossbar.

Few minutes later Galatasaray captain Kaan Ayhan came close to scoring, but his first-time hit at the back post was blocked from hitting the net by Dominik Kotarski.

Galatasaray needed almost no time at all after the restart to begin their celebrations, as Osimhen’s header towards goal was inadvertently redirected past Kotarski by a distraught Baba Rahman. It became Baba’s own goal in the 48^th minute.

Giannis Konstantelias was in the right place to equalise in the 67^th minute after Jonny’s cross-shot rebounded into his path. The Turkish side restored their lead in the 75^th minute as Osimhen’s second-headed assist allowed Yunus Akgun to put the ball beyond Kotarski.

Galatasaray remained in control until the end of the game, with substitute Mauro Icardi exquisitely side-footing in a third goal deep into injury time at the 90+5 minute.