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Victor Osimhen

Victor James Osimhen is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a striker for Galatasaray and the Nigeria national team.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Victor James Osimhen is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a striker for Galatasaray and the Nigeria national team. He rose to prominence after winning the Golden Boot at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup and later became a top scorer in European club football. He has also been recognised as one of Africa’s leading players.

Early life and youth career

Osimhen was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and came through youth football in Nigeria before attracting wider attention at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup. His performances in that tournament established him as a major prospect.

Club career

Osimhen has played professional club football in Europe, including a highly successful spell at Napoli before joining Galatasaray. He has been used primarily as a centre-forward or striker.

International career

Osimhen made his senior debut for Nigeria in 2017 and became an important attacking player for the national team. He has appeared at multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and is among Nigeria’s all-time leading scorers.

Honours and recognition

Osimhen’s honours include the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Boot and individual recognition at the national level in Nigeria. He has also received major continental football recognition for his performances.

Key facts

  • Won the Golden Boot at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup as Nigeria won the tournament.
  • Made his senior international debut for Nigeria in June 2017.
  • Played at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019, 2023 and 2025, with Nigeria finishing runners-up in 2023.
  • Was named a Member of the Federal Republic by President Muhammadu Buhari on 29 May 2023.
  • Played for Galatasaray in the Turkish Süper Lig in 2024–25 and was listed there as a forward wearing number 45.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Victor Osimhen?
Victor Osimhen is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a striker for Galatasaray and the Nigeria national team.
What is Victor Osimhen known for?
He is known for his goalscoring, his breakthrough at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, and his success in European club football.
Which club does Victor Osimhen play for?
He is listed as a Galatasaray forward in current player profiles.
When did Victor Osimhen make his Nigeria debut?
He made his senior international debut for Nigeria in June 2017.
What major youth award did Osimhen win?
He won the Golden Boot at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Has Victor Osimhen received honours in Nigeria?
Yes. He was made a Member of the Federal Republic on 29 May 2023.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Osimhen
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, senior debut, AFCON appearances, Nigeria scoring status, and national honour.
  2. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/soccer/player/_/id/228296/victor-osimhen
    Supports: Current club, position, shirt number, height, date of birth, and nationality.
  3. SofaScore — https://www.sofascore.com/football/player/victor-osimhen/822471
    Supports: Height, preferred foot, age, nationality, current club, and shirt number.
  4. FotMob — https://www.fotmob.com/players/687681/victor-osimhen
    Supports: Position, date of birth, nationality, current club, and contract information.