Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen made his long-awaited return from injury as Galatasaray were beaten 2-0 by Gençlerbirliği in the Turkish Cup at Rams Park on Wednesday.
The Nigerian forward, who completed a permanent move to the Turkish giants in the summer transfer window, had been sidelined after suffering a forearm fracture during a UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Liverpool at Anfield.
Osimhen's absence saw him miss four league matches against Trabzonspor, Göztepe, Kocaelispor, and Gençlerbirliği, a period in which Galatasaray struggled for consistency.
The Nigerian international returned to action in the closing eleven minutes, coming on in place of Guinea-Bissau midfielder Renato Nhaga.
However, his late introduction could not alter the outcome, as strikes from Fıratcan Üzüm and Adama Traoré sealed victory for the visitors.
His return provides a timely boost for manager Okan Buruk, whose side managed just two wins in four matches during the striker's absence.
Before his injury setback, the 27-year-old was one of Galatasaray's standout performers, registering 19 goals and seven assists in 29 appearances across all competitions.
With the campaign nearing its conclusion, Osimhen will be aiming to quickly regain top form and play a decisive role in Galatasaray's push for the domestic title.
Adeyemi Adewale
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