Victor Osimhen was instrumental in leading his new club Napoli to a much-needed victory over Spezia, helping the Serie A side to extend their lead at the top of the table. The Nigerian international, who joined the Italian giants from Belgian side Lille this summer, scored twice as Napoli finally secured all three points with a 3-1 win at San Paolo Stadium.
The 22-year-old forward opened the scoring after just three minutes when he raced clear of defenders and calmly slotted home a low shot into the far corner. Such a quick start gave Napoli an immediate foothold and set them up for a comfortable win, which was ultimately achieved in great style.
Osimhen’s first-half strike was followed by goals from Dries Mertens and Piotr Zielinski either side of halftime, meaning that although Riccardo Saponara had pulled one back for Spezia shortly before half time it was simply too little too late.
The result sees Napoli stretch their lead over third placed Roma to four points as they look to reclaim the league title they last held in 2014/2015 season. But it was not only those on the pitch that should be credited for such an impressive performance, Osimhen’s impact has been immense since he arrived in Italy and his partnership with Lorenzo Insigne continues to develop well.
Osimhen’s second goal of the game came after 61 minutes when Insigne whipped in an outstanding cross for him to head beyond Provedel in goal and seal victory for Napoli. This combination bodes well for future matches and is something coach Gennaro Gattuso will be looking to exploit more often as his side look to maintain their momentum throughout this campaign.
There is no doubt that Osimhen has already made a huge impact since joining Napoli and wearing the famous blue jersey that has been worn by so many greats before him; with two goals against Spezia taking his tally up to four in just six Serie A games so far. That record looks likely to improve even further during what could potentially be another historic season for this Napoli team.
It remains to be seen whether or not they can go all the way, but given their current form you would not bet against them doing so, especially with Victor Osimhen leading their attack with such confidence and assurance every time he pulls on his Napoli jersey.
Victor Osimhen’s performance against Spezia has even earned him praise from some of the greatest players to have ever graced Serie A. Former Napoli star Marek Hamsik, who originally brought Osimhen into the club, said: “I’m proud for Victor – he is a great player and he showed it tonight.”
It is not just former team-mates that are praising his performances either. “Osimhen is proving to be an incredible signing,” said legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon on Instagram. “I am sure he will continue scoring goals with this club.”
Such high praise from one of Italy’s footballing icons serves as confirmation that Osimhen is settling in well at Napoli and has all the tools to become a true Serie A star. With his quality performances, it’s only a matter of time until the rest of Europe takes notice too.
It may have taken him some time to adjust but Victor Osimhen is fast becoming one of Napoli’s most important players and if he can continue like this then there is no telling how far he can take them this season. All eyes will now be on him as we all eagerly await what promises to be an exciting journey for both Napoli and their Nigerian superstar striker.