After Shirt Exchange, Van Dijk Breaks Silince On Osimhen’s Performance Against Liverpool
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has praised Victor Osimhen’s display after the Reds’ 1-0 loss to Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night.
Osimhen, who has quickly established himself as a fan favourite in Turkey, scored the decisive penalty in the first half at Rams Park, sealing a famous win for the Turkish champions over the Premier League holders.
Reflecting on the game, Van Dijk admitted that Liverpool’s defensive lapses played a part in the defeat.
“They won a penalty and a few chances because of our mistakes. It was a bit of a messy game,” the Dutch defender told Habersarikirmizi after the match.
“After a terrible performance at the weekend, we are facing a hard defeat to accept. Osimhen converted the penalty. He also had some chances due to our mistakes. He could not capitalise on them, but he did manage to create some for himself. Galatasaray’s attacking players are successful.”
For Osimhen, the victory carried extra significance. The Nigerian striker, who has been in the spotlight since joining Galatasaray, described the club as the biggest in the world after inspiring them to overcome Arne Slot‘s side.
“Congratulations to the team, it was a very tough opponent. Many people didn’t believe we would win, except for the people you see here,” Osimhen said during his post-match interview.
“I stayed away from the team, but for me, this is the biggest team in the world! It was a big win for Galatasaray and for me.”
After the game, Van Dijk was pictured exchanging jerseys with Osimhen.