Osimhen's goals clinch Turkish title for Galatasaray

Victor Osimhen's double strike propelled Galatasaray to a record 26th Turkish Super Lig title, as they staged a dramatic 4-2 comeback against Antalyaspor at RAMS Park on Saturday, thereby securing their fourth consecutive championship and equalling their own historic streak from 1996 to 2000.

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The Nigerian striker, who had joined Galatasaray permanently after helping them win the domestic double on loan last season, was the pivotal figure on a night that almost took an unexpected turn before the celebrations could commence.

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Antalyaspor had threatened to spoil the expected title party in Istanbul, taking the lead twice, with Soner Dikmen scoring the opener just before half-time and silencing the crowd that was already preparing to celebrate.

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The tension intensified after the restart when substitute Mario Lemina levelled the game in the 56th minute, only for Dikmen to strike again six minutes later, making it 2-1 on the night.

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Osimhen then took charge, converting a penalty he won in the 66th minute to pull Galatasaray level, before scoring his second in the 88th minute to complete their comeback.

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Substitute Kaan Ayhan sealed the result beyond doubt with a goal in the 95th minute, as the title arrived with added personal significance for Osimhen, who has now scored or assisted in each of his last 11 Super Lig appearances this season.

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The former Napoli striker's collection of honours, which already includes the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the Africa U-23 Cup of Nations, the Serie A title, and last season's Turkish league and cup double, now has another major addition.

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Galatasaray had entered the match with a four-point cushion over Fenerbahce, requiring only a positive result to seal the title, and the club had reportedly promised the squad a €5m bonus and several days off if they delivered the championship at home.

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Manager Okan Buruk had cancelled an earlier planned holiday following their shock 4-1 defeat to Samsunspor the previous weekend, and the scenes that followed the final whistle were predictably euphoric.

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Istanbul is set to host celebrations similar to those that have become familiar during Galatasaray's era of dominance, which have included thousands of fans following the team across the Bosphorus in boats and a parade and gathering of over one million supporters at the Yenikapı Rally Area to mark the trophy ceremony.

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With 26 league titles, Galatasaray have further solidified their position as the most successful club in Turkish football history.