Naija Stars: Osimhen's late goal not enough as Akpom's Ajax knock Galatasaray out of Europa League top 8

Chuba Akpom (left) and Victor Osimhen (right) went head-to-head in the Europa League.

Naija Stars: Osimhen's late goal not enough as Akpom's Ajax knock Galatasaray out of Europa League top 8

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 22:58 - 30.01.2025

Nigerian duo Victor Osimhen and Chuba Akpom featured as Ajax overpowered Galatasaray in the final game of the Europa League group stage.

In a dramatic conclusion to the Europa League group stage, Nigerian stars Victor Osimhen and Chuba Akpom faced off as Ajax defeated Galatasaray 2-1 in Amsterdam on Thursday night. 

The match was a disappointing end for Galatasaray, who missed out on an automatic spot in the round of 16, finishing the group stage with a playoff position instead.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports

Galatasaray entered the match hoping to maintain their unbeaten streak but were quickly put on the back foot. 

Ajax took control early, with Bertrand Traoré scoring the opening goal after being set up by Akpom, who came off the bench to make a significant impact. 

Chuba Akpom came off the bench to help Ajax beat Galatasaray.
Chuba Akpom came off the bench to help Ajax beat Galatasaray.

Kian Fitz-Jim then doubled Ajax's lead in the second half, leaving Galatasaray scrambling to respond.

Despite their struggles, Galatasaray found a glimmer of hope when Osimhen netted a late consolation goal. However, it proved too little too late to inspire a comeback for the Turkish side. 

Osimhen grabbed a consolation for Galatasaray.
Osimhen grabbed a consolation for Galatasaray.

The result means that Galatasaray finished the group stage with 13 points, the same as their conquerors Ajax, who also finished in the playoff.

Osimhen's late goal highlighted his continued importance to Galatasaray, but it was not enough to secure a victory or advance directly in the tournament. 

The team’s inability to capitalise on their unbeaten run ultimately cost them dearly, and they will now have to go through the playoff round to keep their European dreams alive.

As both teams look ahead, Ajax will be pleased with their performance and progression in the tournament, while Galatasaray will need to regroup and find solutions to their defensive frailties which made them concede 16 goals in eight matches.