Victor Osimhen and Galatasaray’s hopes of Europa League glory came to a crushing end after a 2-2 draw against AZ Alkmaar saw them crash out of the competition on a 6-3 aggregate.
Despite Osimhen’s best efforts, Galatasaray couldn’t overturn the heavy 4-1 deficit from the first leg. The Nigerian striker, who missed the first match due to suspension, had promised a comeback, but Alkmaar struck first in Istanbul. Seiya Maikuma’s fortunate deflection put the Dutch side ahead just before halftime, and Denso Kasius doubled the lead with a stunning long-range effort early in the second half.
Osimhen pulled one back in the 56th minute, reigniting hopes of a miracle comeback, and Roland Sallai’s equalizer in the 70th minute gave Galatasaray a lifeline. However, the Turkish side needed three more goals to force extra time, and Alkmaar’s resilient defense shut down any further chances.
With the Europa League campaign over, Osimhen and his teammates will now turn their focus to Monday’s heated “Intercontinental Derby” against fierce rivals Fenerbahçe, where they hold a six-point lead at the top of the Turkish Super Lig.
Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar advances to the Europa League Round of 16, where they will face either Manchester United or Tottenham, with the draw set for Friday at 12:00 GMT.
Elsewhere, Roma staged a thrilling comeback against Porto, with Paulo Dybala scoring twice to seal a 3-2 victory (4-3 aggregate), while Bodo/Glimt and FCSB also booked their places in the last 16.
Europa League Playoff Results:
AS Roma 3-2 Porto (Agg. 4-3)
Bodo/Glimt 5-2 Twente (Agg. 6-4)
FCSB 2-0 PAOK (Agg. 4-1)
Galatasaray 2-2 AZ Alkmaar (Agg. 3-6)
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