Brilliant Osimhen helps Napoli to flying start in the Champions League

Osimhen hits new landmark as Napoli down Sassuolo

The Super Eagles star put up a strong performance to spur Napoli to victory in their opening game of the season 

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen registered an assist for Napoli in their 2-1 victory over Braga in the opening game of the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League season, Soccernet reports.

Osimhen failed to get on the scoresheet last time out when Napoli forced Genoa to a 2-2 draw in the Serie A. However, he was looking to get the monkeys off his back when the Partenopeans visited the Estadio Municipal de Braga.

The Nigerian led the line, and he did a very good job. Osimhen nearly scored in the 10th minute, but his header was thwarted by Matheus Magalhaes, who made a great save.

The 24-year-old came close again midway into the half. He struck a shot from the edge of the box, but he couldn’t score as the ball hit the bar. Napoli had the better chances in the first half, but they failed to convert. However, favour smiled on them just before the break.

Osimhen set up Giovanni Di Lorenzo through on goal with a slick pass, and the Italian converted, despite pressure from Braga defenders, to make it 1-0 for the Italians.

In the second half, Osimhen had more attempts on goal, but he could not find the net.

It looked like the Partenopeans would have had to settle for a draw after Bruma scored for Braga in the 84th minute. However, Napoli put more pressure on the home side and eventually got the golden goal that would secure the victory after Sikou Niakhate’s own goal.

Osimhen saw 90 minutes of action before he was hauled off for Giovanni Simeone. Napoli eventually ran out 2-1 winners again Braga.