Former Beşiktaş J.K. director of football Önder Özen has described Victor Osimhen as the best striker in Türkiye and the surrounding region following his decisive performance in the Istanbul derby.

Özen made the remarks during a discussion on the Neo Spor YouTube Channel after Galatasaray S.K. secured a narrow 1–0 victory over Beşiktaş in the Turkish derby on Saturday.

Osimhen proved to be the difference-maker in the highly anticipated clash, scoring the only goal of the match with a powerful header shortly after the half-hour mark.

The Nigerian forward has been in outstanding form this season, continuing a remarkable run in the Turkish Süper Lig where he has either scored or assisted in each of his last eight league matches. The run equals the best goal contribution streak of his career, first achieved during his time at S.S.C. Napoli in 2023.

Özen praised the striker’s overall influence in the derby, noting that his impact went beyond simply scoring the winning goal.

“Let us begin from Bavaria and move to our region; Osimhen is the greatest striker in this area. He has contributed significantly in both offensive and defensive aspects,” Özen said.

“He also disrupted the connections Beşiktaş established from defense to midfield. He obstructed Beşiktaş’s fluidity.”

Osimhen has also carried his impressive form into Europe. The former African Footballer of the Year has scored seven goals in the UEFA Champions League this season ahead of Galatasaray’s round-of-16 clash against Liverpool F.C..

Currently, the competition’s scoring chart is led by Kylian Mbappé with 13 goals, followed by Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane with eight goals each.

Opinion: Osimhen Proving His World-Class Status Again

Özen’s praise may sound bold, but Osimhen’s current form makes it difficult to argue against the sentiment. The Nigerian striker has consistently demonstrated his ability to dominate defenders, whether in domestic leagues or on the European stage.

What makes Osimhen particularly valuable is his all-round contribution. Beyond scoring goals, his pressing, physical presence, and relentless movement often disrupt opposition build-up play—qualities that modern strikers are increasingly expected to deliver.

For Galatasaray, his impact could be the difference between a good season and a historic one, especially as they compete in both the Süper Lig and the Champions League.

If he maintains this level of performance, discussions about Osimhen being among Europe’s elite forwards—not just the best in Türkiye—will only grow louder. ⚽