Victor Osimhen's first Champions League goal met with silence against former club Lille
Osimhen scored for Galatasaray but chose not to celebrate, reflecting on his past with Lille.

Victor Osimhen scored his first UEFA Champions League goal of the season during Galatasaray's match against LOSC Lille, but his reaction was notably subdued. Rather than celebrating, the Nigerian forward raised his hands in the air, a gesture that sparked curiosity among fans and commentators alike.
The decision not to celebrate stemmed from Osimhen's personal history with Lille, where he played during the 2019/20 Ligue 1 season. His time at the French club was significant, as he made 38 appearances, netting 18 goals and providing six assists. This impressive performance helped him secure a €70 million transfer to Napoli, where he gained recognition as one of Serie A's top strikers.
Osimhen's restrained reaction is a common display of respect among footballers for former clubs that have contributed to their development. Scoring against Lille, a team that played a pivotal role in his career, led him to choose a gesture of acknowledgment rather than exuberance.
In addition to his goal, Osimhen had several other opportunities during the match, including a penalty that was overturned by VAR and a goal that was disallowed for offside. Despite these moments, Galatasaray triumphed with a 4-2 victory, marking their first points in this season's Champions League.
While Osimhen's performance was commendable, Galatasaray still finds itself outside the playoff spots, indicating that their journey in the competition is far from over. The match showcased not only Osimhen's talent but also the deep connections players have with their former teams, highlighting the emotional aspects of professional football.
Sources
- Legit Original article