Victor Osimhen helped Galatasaray defeat PAOK 3-1 in the first round of the new UEFA Europa League format.
Even though Osimhen’s first official goal was redirected by PAOK’s Ghanaian defender, Abdul Rahman Baba, it was an important moment in the game.
In the first half, Galatasaray dominated the match. After halftime, Osimhen’s header from a corner led to an own goal by Baba, giving Galatasaray the lead.
Earlier, Osimhen came close to scoring, but his header went over the bar just 20 seconds into the game.
PAOK fought back in the 67th minute when Giannis Konstantelias scored to equalize. However, nine minutes later, Osimhen assisted Yunus Akgün, who scored to restore Galatasaray’s lead. Mauro Icardi sealed the victory with a third goal in injury time.
Galatasaray’s chances of reaching the knockout stages look strong. They have lost only once in 13 previous Europa League group-stage games. PAOK, on the other hand, has struggled, with only one win in their last 11 matches.
Elsewhere, Nigerian player Fisayo Dele-Bashiru helped Lazio win 3-0 against Dynamo Kyiv. Dele-Bashiru scored with a great shot into the top corner, while Boulaye Dia added another goal early in the game.
Other Results:
– AZ Alkmaar 3-2 Elfsborg
– Bodø/Glimt 3-2 FC Porto
– Anderlecht 2-1 Ferencváros
– Dynamo Kyiv 0-3 Lazio
– Midtjylland 1-1 Hoffenheim
– Galatasaray 3-1 PAOK FC
– Ludogorets 0-2 Slavia Prague
– Manchester United 1-1 FC Twente
– Nice 1-1 Real Sociedad
EFL Cup (Round 3):
– Arsenal 5-1 Bolton
– Liverpool 5-1 West Ham
NPFL:
– Enyimba 2-1 Lobi Stars
– Ikorodu 0-1 Rangers
