Ajax Coach Discloses How His Team Will Stop Osimhen in UEFA Champions League

Ajax Coach Discloses How His Team Will Stop Osimhen in UEFA Champions League

  • Ajax manager John Heitinga has outlined strategies to contain Victor Osimhen ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash
  • The Godenzonen will face Galatasaray in their matchday four encounter tonight, November 5
  • Osimhen has been in impressive form for the Turkish giants, scoring three goals in the tournament and setting a new record in their previous match

Ajax coach John Heitinga said his team is ready to curtail Victor Osimhen during their UEFA Champions League encounter later today, November 5.

Heitinga said his players would be mindful of the tactical abilities of the Nigerian international while trying to secure a vital win.

Ajax will host the Turkish Champions at the Johan Cruijff Arena in the Netherlands, with Galatasaray hoping to continue their winning streak.

Victor Osimhen, Galatasaray, UEFA, Europe League, Dynamo Kyiv, Turkey, Football.
Victor Osimhen during the 2024/25 UEFA Europa League match between Galatasaray and Dynamo Kyiv in Istanbul, Turkey. Photo by Ahmad Mora.
Source: Getty Images

Osihen failed to score a goal in Galatasaray's league match against Trabzonspor with Andree Onana denying the striker chances.

Heitinga gives solution to Osimhen's attacking prowess

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Victor Osimhen sends message to Galatasaray fans after draw against Trabzonspor

John Heitinga has hailed the football abilities of Victor Osimhen ahead of matchday four of the UEFA Champions League.

According to the official website of Ajax, the Dutch manager said his side have to hold on to possession if they don't want the Nigerian international to operate during the match.

He explained that his defenders must be cautious of Osimhen's speed and strength, which make him one of Europe's deadliest strikers. He said:

"I must admit that Victor Osimhen is a great striker; clever, strong, and fast. You have to handle him wisely.
"He’s a complete forward and one of the best at the moment. There are few players as quick as he is.
"I hope we’ll be more secure in possession tomorrow and that what I see in training will show in the match. We’ll do everything we can to keep him quiet."

Heitinga compares Osimhen to Drogba and Ibrahimovic

Victor Osimhen, Ajax, Galatasaray, Nigeria, Netherlands, UEFA, Champions League.
Victor Osimhen during the 2024/25 UEFA Europa League match between Ajax and Galatasaray at Johan Cruijff in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Photo by: Ben Gal/BSR Agency.
Source: Getty Images

John Heitinga has compared Victor Osimhen to the duo of Chelsea legend Didier Drogba and AC Milan legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Read also

NSC chairman discloses Victor Osimhen's dressing room reaction after Super Eagles games

The former Liverpool assistant coach said the former Napoli forward intimidates defenders with his strength, pace and presence. He said:

“If I were to compare Osimhen to someone, it would be these two players Drogba and Ibrahimovic.
“He combines both strength and speed, and his physical presence is incredible. We must be fully focused to contain him,” per FLashScore.

Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen became the first Galatasaray fastest scorer in the UCL, following their 3-1 win against Bodo/Glimt.

The Super Eagles player also became the first player in the club’s history to score in seven consecutive European fixtures.

The 26-year-old's goal against Liverpool in the UCL helped the Turkish Champion secure a double victory for the first time in 13 years.

Galatasaray landed Osimhen on a permanent deal from the Italian side Napoli for around €75 million this summer.

Comparing Osimhen's stats to Onuachu's numbers

Legit.ng previously analysed Victor Osimhen’s stats in comparison to his compatriot Paul Onuachu’s numbers ahead of Galatasaray vs Trabzonspor.

Read also

Victor Osimhen: Super Eagles striker hailed as "best ever forward" to play in Turkey

The 2-metre-tall striker has been the best in the Turkish Super League this season and leads the scorers’ chart, but couldn't power his team to victory.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
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Dare Kuti (Sports Editor) Dare Kuti is a CAVB-accredited journalist based in Nigeria. He is renowned for his work in football, volleyball, wrestling, taekwondo and handball. He has covered several major competitions including the African Games hosted by Morocco and Ghana, FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, CAF Events, as well as grassroots competitions across the continent. Email: dare.kuti@corp.legit.ng.