UCL Play-offs: Victor Osimhen Set to Play with Injection Against Juventus in Crucial Second Leg

 

​The UEFA Champions League play-offs are reaching a fever pitch as Galatasaray prepares to defend their commanding lead against Juventus at the Allianz Stadium. However, the biggest talking point leading into this Wednesday clash isn't just the scoreline, but the fitness of Nigerian superstar Victor Osimhen. Reports from Turkish journalist Haluk Yürekli suggest that the talismanic striker is prepared to play with pain-killing injections to ensure the Turkish giants secure their spot in the Round of 16.

​The Injury Scare: Why Osimhen Missed Konyaspor

​Galatasaray fans were left anxious over the weekend when Osimhen was a notable absentee in their 2-0 defeat to Konyaspor. While initial rumors suggested internal club friction, it has been confirmed that the 27-year-old is battling a meniscus-related knee issue.

​The decision to leave him out of the domestic fixture was purely precautionary. According to sources within the club, manager Okan Buruk wanted to give his star man every possible chance to recover for the trip to Turin. Despite the pain, Osimhen returned to full training on Monday, signaling his intent to lead the line against the "Old Lady."

​Playing Through the Pain: The Injection Strategy

​To neutralize the knee discomfort, medical staff are reportedly preparing to administer injections to allow Osimhen to start the match. This "win-at-all-costs" mentality highlights the striker's importance to the squad. Having already provided two crucial assists in the 5-2 first-leg victory, Osimhen is viewed as the "X-factor" that Juventus simply cannot handle.

​Former Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello recently noted that Juventus’ only hope of stopping the Nigerian is the return of Gleison Bremer, emphasizing that Osimhen's speed and physical presence are too much for a depleted Italian defense.

​Galatasaray’s Tactical Advantage

​With a three-goal cushion, Galatasaray is the clear favorite to advance. However, the presence of Osimhen changes the tactical setup entirely.

• ​Pressure on Juventus: Even at 80% fitness, Osimhen demands double-teaming, which opens space for teammates like Noa Lang and Yunus Akgün.
• ​Goal-Scoring Threat: With six goals in the Champions League this season, he remains the competition's most feared marksman.
• ​Psychological Edge: His history in Serie A with Napoli means he understands the Juventus backline better than anyone, providing a mental edge before the whistle even blows.

​What’s at Stake in Turin?

​For Galatasaray, this isn't just a game; it's a statement of European intent. For Victor Osimhen, it’s a chance to further cement his status as a world-class elite, even if it means sacrificing his physical comfort for 90 minutes. Fans worldwide will be watching to see if the "masked assassin" can deliver another masterclass in Italy.