November 06, (THEWILL) — Victor Osimhen scored a hat-trick to guide Galatasaray to a commanding 3-0 victory over Ajax in Amsterdam on Wednesday evening, condemning the Dutch side to a fourth consecutive UEFA Champions League defeat.
The Nigerian striker netted twice from the penalty spot and added a header to complete a memorable performance at the Johan Cruyff Arena, avenging last season’s Europa League elimination.
Ajax manager John Heitinga made substantial changes to his beleaguered team, including the unexpected selection of Youri Regeer on the right wing.
The hosts have endured a torrid campaign, losing to Inter, Marseille, Chelsea and now Galatasaray whilst conceding 12 goals and scoring only once. Goalkeeper Remko Pasveer, who is 41 years old, denied Osimhen early on with saves from a volley and header, but could not prevent the inevitable breakthrough.
Osimhen opened the scoring by beating Josip Sutalo and Pasveer to a Leroy Sane cross, heading past the veteran goalkeeper.
The visitors doubled their lead when Youri Baas handled a cross inside the area, allowing Osimhen to convert confidently into the left corner.
UCL debutant Gerald Alders then conceded a second penalty, which Osimhen dispatched in the opposite direction to seal his treble after 78 minutes.
Ajax squandered a major chance when Ugurcan Cakir misjudged a long ball from Oscar Gloukh, but Mika Godts failed to profit from the Turkish goalkeeper’s error.
The home side registered their first attempt only after 33 minutes, with Jorthy Mokio’s effort posing little threat. Mauro Icardi, who replaced Osimhen late on, struck the post in stoppage time.
The defeat leaves Ajax bottom of the UCL table on goal difference with zero points from four matches.
Galatasaray moved up to ninth place with their third European win of the season.
Ajax will host fellow strugglers Benfica next, whilst the Turkish champions face Union Saint-Gilloise on November 25.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
