Sinan Engin, a former Besiktas midfielder and established football analyst, has highlighted the significant impact of Nigerian strikers Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu in the 2025-2026 Turkish Super Lig season.
Engin, speaking on the Asist Analiz YouTube channel, emphasized the offensive contributions of the forwards from Galatasaray and Trabzonspor. The pair have combined for 42 goals in all competitions this season, with Osimhen scoring 19 and Onuachu 23, establishing them as key figures in the league’s scoring charts.
Osimhen, the 2023 African Footballer of the Year, extended his run to nine consecutive Super Lig matches with a goal or assist after netting in Galatasaray’s win against Başakşehir FK. Onuachu, meanwhile, is on a ten-game scoring streak across all competitions, demonstrating consistent efficiency.
In the league table, Galatasaray leads with 64 points, seven ahead of third-placed Trabzonspor, with eight matches remaining. Engin directly attributed Galatasaray’s championship push to Osimhen, stating, “Osimhen is the one who drives Galatasaray towards the championship.” He similarly noted that Onuachu’s 23 goals are vital for Trabzonspor’s bid to secure a Champions League position.
Engin, a respected commentator in Turkish football, also stressed the broader importance of strikers, suggesting that without such production, teams would likely earn fewer points. His remarks underscore the decisive role these players hold in high-stakes matches.
Osimhen’s current form builds on his achievement last season, where he was named the Super Lig’s top scorer, becoming only the fourth African player to receive the honor after Aatif Chahechouhe, Mbaye Diagne, and Aaron Boupendza. This legacy highlights the growing influence of Nigerian talent in Turkey’s top division.
As the season progresses, the goal-scoring exploits of Osimhen and Onuachu will remain central to their clubs’ ambitions. With Galatasaray aiming to maintain its lead and Trabzonspor chasing a higher finish, the Nigerian forwards’ performances could ultimately determine the title outcome and European qualification for both teams. Their sustained output reflects a broader trend of African strikers excelling in the competitive Turkish Super Lig.
