Victor Osimhen continued to write his name in the history books of Napoli as they extended their lead at the top of Serie A with a hard-fought win over upstarts Fiorentina. The Nigerian striker scored the only goal of the game, his fifth in seven appearances for the Italian side and took their total points tally to 18 points clear at the top of Serie A.
The 21-year-old, who joined Napoli from Lille in August 2020, made a stunning start to life with Gli Azzurri, scoring four goals in his first five league matches. Those goals helped to almost single-handedly guide Napoli to victory against Udinese, Benevento and Crotone earlier this season.
Osimhen was once again at his clinical best on Sunday evening, as he managed to squeeze a shot past Bartlomiej Dragowski from close range after a defensive mix-up from Fiorentina. The goal handed Napoli all three points and extended their lead at the top even further, leaving them well on course for their first Scudetto since 1990.
The former Lille man’s performance was even more impressive considering it had been over two months since he last played due to a calf injury sustained in December while on international duty with Nigeria. In that time, Lorenzo Insigne has stepped into Osimhen’s shoes and done an admirable job in leading Napoli’s line – but it is clear that without Victor’s contribution, Gennaro Gattuso would not have such a stranglehold on the title race.
Osimhen’s heroics have also seen him become something of a cult hero among Napoli fans, who have taken to wearing his signature No 9 jersey during matches at Stadio San Paolo and beyond. While there may be plenty of football left this season – including tricky fixtures against Parma and Roma – there is no doubt that Victor will continue to play an important role if Napoli are to ultimately lift the trophy come May.
With Osimhen’s incredible form for the Italian side, it is hardly surprising that he has been touted as one of the rising stars of European football. His goalscoring prowess and eye for goal will be key to Napoli as they continue their quest to bring the Scudetto back to Naples and end their 30-year wait for a league title. With his impressive form, Victor Osimhen has certainly made a name for himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in Serie A. He is set to continue his remarkable run in the coming matches, and a successful season with Napoli will see him earn even more plaudits. It looks like Victor Osimhen has finally found a home at Napoli – and it could be just what they need to win their first Scudetto since 1990.