Victor Osimhen, Super Eagles striker, expressed his admiration for fellow Nigerian Anthony Nwakaeme on Instagram after their thrilling 4-3 encounter between Galatasaray and Trabzonspor on Monday.
Due to a minor injury, Osimhen, who is presently on loan from Napoli, was unable to play in Galatasaray’s Europa League encounter against Malmo last Thursday. But on Monday, when the Turkish champions played their rivals Trabzonspor at Rams Park, he successfully returned to the bench.
The talented striker was brought into the match in the 75th minute, adding vigor to Galatasaray’s attack. His contribution proved pivotal, as the team managed to secure a stunning 98th-minute winner, clinching the victory.
Nwakaeme also showcased his skills for Trabzonspor, playing a full 90 minutes in the match. The 35-year-old forward demonstrated solid performance and continues to be a key player for his club, having registered one goal and one assist this season.
After the game, Victor Osimhen took to his Instagram story to post a picture of himself and Nwakaeme with a caption that reads: “Good to see you again, senior man.”
Recall that Nwakaeme earned his sole cap for Nigeria during a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Algeria on November 17. Although Nigeria originally secured a 1-1 draw in that game, FIFA later awarded Algeria a 3-0 win due to Nigeria’s fielding of an ineligible player.
Despite not having played for the national team since that match, Nwakaeme has not officially retired from international football, though it appears unlikely he will return. His experience and talent continue to shine in domestic competitions as he remains a respected figure in Nigerian football.
Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen, who won the 2023 Africa Player of the Year, has congratulated his countryman, Ademola Lookman, who succeeded him as the 2024 winner.
In an interview with Oganla Media, Osimhen said, “He knows my thoughts towards it; I have spoken to him in person as he was the clear favorite to win it.
“I told him to enjoy it with his family because I know how hard it is to get to where he is. It would be a big moment, an overwhelming one for him.”
