Soccer News of Friday, 30 January 2026

Source: www.punchng.com

Osimhen fires Juve, Atletico warning ahead UCL playoffs

Victor Osimhen has backed Galatasaray to compete strongly when they face either Juventus or Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League playoffs, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The Turkish champions secured their place in the knockout phase after finishing in the top 24 teams, despite losing 2-0 to Manchester City on Wednesday night.

Galatasaray will learn their playoff opponents on Friday when the draw is held, with the winners potentially facing either Tottenham or Liverpool in the next round.

“Juventus are a very good team, and so also Atletico,” Osimhen said after the City defeat.

“Whoever comes, we will do our best.”

The Super Eagles striker tested City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma three times during the match but could not find the net. Fortunately for Galatasaray, results elsewhere went in their favour, and they finished 20th in the overall standings.

Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk also expressed confidence that his side would be ready for the challenge ahead.

Osimhen scored his 50th goal for Galatasaray on Saturday against Fatih Karagümrük, and after drawing a blank against City, he would be eager to return to scoring ways in their next league game.

Osimhen scored 37 goals in 41 appearances for the Turkish Super Lig champions last season and has now added 13 goals this season.