Victor Osimhen found the net for Galatasaray, but his goal proved insufficient as Ajax secured a 2-1 victory in their Europa League group-stage clash at the Johan Cruijff Arena.
The Turkish champions entered the fixture as one of only two unbeaten sides across Europe’s top ten leagues, alongside Juventus.
However, their impressive record came to an end in Amsterdam as Ajax capitalized on their chances while Galatasaray struggled with finishing.
Osimhen, who had scored in each of his last three matches, led the attack alongside former Napoli teammate Dries Mertens.
Galatasaray dominated the early proceedings and had a golden opportunity in the 18th minute when Baris Alper Yilmaz delivered a pinpoint cross, but Osimhen’s header missed the target.
Just five minutes later, the visitors were punished for their wastefulness.
Substitute Chuba Akpom, who replaced the injured Mika Godts in the 12th minute, set up Bertrand Traoré to fire Ajax into the lead.
Despite both teams creating opportunities, the Dutch side took their 1-0 advantage into the break.
Victor Osimhen with a consolation goal for Galatasaray against Ajax. 🔥🇳🇬
pic.twitter.com/D27pK3kLNC— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) January 30, 2025
Galatasaray pushed for an equalizer in the second half, but Ajax remained clinical.
In the 58th minute, Kian Fitz-Jim doubled the home side’s lead with a well-taken finish, leaving the Turkish giants with an uphill task.
Osimhen eventually pulled one back in stoppage time, reacting quickest to a rebound and calmly slotting the ball into the net.
However, it was too little too late, as Ajax held on to claim victory and hand Galatasaray their first defeat of the season.
Despite registering 26 shots, Galatasaray could only convert one, highlighting their struggles in front of goal.
Osimhen, in particular, had nine attempts but managed just the solitary goal.
The result sees Galatasaray lose their unbeaten status while Ajax secure a confidence-boosting win in their European campaign.
