No injury worries – Buruk explains Osimhen substitution vs Liverpool

Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk has reassured fans there is no injury concern for Victor Osimhen after the striker was substituted during their 1-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Liverpool on Tuesday night.

Osimhen, who scored the decisive goal, was replaced by Mauro Icardi in the 72nd minute as the Turkish champions looked to preserve their lead at the Ali Sami Yen Spor Kompleksi.

Buruk downplays concerns

Buruk revealed that Osimhen had complained of fatigue and suffered a cramp in his foot, but stressed it was not a serious issue.

“Osimhen was feeling tired and had a cramp in his foot, but we don’t think it’s anything serious. There’s no negative information coming in at this time,” the coach told the club’s official website.

Historic goal for Nigerian striker

Before his substitution, the 26-year-old had already made his mark by converting a 16th-minute penalty, sending goalkeeper Alisson Becker the wrong way.

The goal secured Galatasaray’s vital win and made Osimhen the first Nigerian player to reach double figures in the UEFA Champions League.

Boost for Nigeria’s World Cup hopes

Buruk’s clarification also comes as a relief for Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle, who will need Osimhen fit for the Super Eagles’ decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho later this month.