Victor Osimhen in action during the Turkish Super League fixture between Eyupspor and Galatasaray at Kasimpasa Recep Tayyip Erdogan Stadium, Istanbul. Photo Credit: ImagoxSeskimphotox Eyup-GSaray-270425 44

Victor Osimhen’s Stunning Hat-Trick Overlooked in UEFA Champions League Player of the Week Voting

Galatasaray’s star striker Victor Osimhen delivered a sensational hat-trick against Ajax, yet UEFA overlooked him for the coveted Player of the Week award.

Osimhen’s Dominant Display at Johan Cruyff Arena

On Wednesday night, Victor Osimhen was the standout performer as Galatasaray dismantled Ajax 3-0 at the Johan Cruyff Arena. The Nigerian forward showcased his clinical finishing by netting a header and converting two penalties, securing a comprehensive victory for the Turkish giants.

His three-goal haul not only propelled Galatasaray to a crucial win but also elevated him to the summit of the Champions League top scorers’ list for the current season. Remarkably, Osimhen was the sole player to achieve a hat-trick during this game week, underscoring his exceptional form.

Unexpected Exclusion from Player of the Week Award

Despite his remarkable performance, UEFA’s Player of the Week accolade was awarded to Manchester City’s Phil Foden, who was among the nominees alongside Osimhen, Club Brugge’s Carlos Forbs, and Arsenal’s Mikel Merino. Fan voting determined the outcome, with Osimhen finishing as the runner-up.

Final standings for UEFA Champions League Player of the Week:

1st: Phil Foden
2nd: Victor Osimhen
3rd: Carlos Forbs
4th: Mikel Merino

Source: UEFA Champions League Twitter

This marks the second consecutive matchweek where Osimhen has been overlooked for individual accolades. In the previous round, despite scoring twice to help Galatasaray overcome Bodo Glimt 3-1, he was omitted from the Team of the Week, with Athletic Bilbao’s Gorka Guruzeta selected instead.

Recognition in UEFA Team of the Week Provides Some Solace

Although Osimhen missed out on the Player of the Week title, UEFA acknowledged his outstanding contributions by including him in the Team of the Week for game week 4. He features prominently in a forward line alongside Phil Foden and Mikel Merino.

The midfield comprises Davide Zappacosta, Alexis Mac Allister, Ibrahim Maza, and Carlos Forbs, while the defensive trio includes Carlos Augusto (Inter Milan), Robin Koch, and Nnamdi Collins. Bayern Munich’s Manuel Neuer rounds out the lineup as goalkeeper, credited with eight crucial saves in their 2-1 victory over PSG.

Osimhen’s Rising Influence in European Football

Victor Osimhen’s recent exploits highlight his growing stature as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards. His ability to consistently deliver in high-stakes matches has drawn comparisons to some of the continent’s elite strikers. With Galatasaray’s Champions League campaign gaining momentum, Osimhen’s goal-scoring prowess will be pivotal in their quest for continental glory.

As of November 2025, Osimhen has netted seven goals in the Champions League group stages, making him one of the competition’s most prolific scorers this season. His performances have not only boosted Galatasaray’s profile but also reignited discussions about his potential to become one of the best African forwards in European football history.