Victor Osimhen Admits He Hopes to ‘Escape’ Liverpool in Champions League Draw

Victor Osimhen has revealed he would prefer to avoid Liverpool FC in the Champions League last-16 draw, suggesting Arne Slot’s side would be seeking “revenge” if the two teams were paired together.

The Galatasaray SK striker made the comments after his side progressed past Juventus FC in a dramatic play-off tie, eventually sealing a 7–5 aggregate victory.

Galatasaray carried a commanding 5–2 advantage from the first leg in Istanbul. However, Juventus — despite having Lloyd Kelly sent off — forced extra time in Turin with a 3–0 win inside 90 minutes. The Turkish side ultimately capitalised on their numerical advantage, scoring twice in extra time to lose 3–2 on the night but secure passage to the next round.

‘I Would Like to Escape Liverpool’

Osimhen, who netted the decisive penalty in a 1–0 group-stage victory over Liverpool earlier in the campaign, admitted he would rather not face the Reds again so soon.

Speaking to former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher on CBS Sports, the Nigeria international was asked whether he would prefer Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur in the next round.

“To be honest with you, meeting Liverpool now is going to be like some sort of revenge,” Osimhen said.

“Anyone we meet now… I wouldn’t say much, but I would like to escape Liverpool.

“But if they come, yes, we’re going to dig it out — but it’s not going to be easy.”

The striker acknowledged the scale of the challenge that awaits in the knockout phase, pointing to the unpredictable nature of the competition.

“This is the Champions League — no team is easy. We can see how well Bodø/Glimt are doing in this tournament.

“If you want to win, you also have to play the big sides and make a statement for yourself.

“We’ve met Liverpool, but we haven’t played at Anfield. If we meet them, it’s going to be an amazing game.

“I think we’re up to the task. It’s not going to be easy, of course, but we have fight in us.”

Draw Awaits

Liverpool could also be paired with Atlético Madrid, who progressed after overcoming Club Brugge over two legs.

The draw for the last 16 will take place on Friday, with Europe’s remaining contenders discovering their path to the quarter-finals.

For Osimhen and Galatasaray, the message is clear: confidence is high — but a reunion with Liverpool at Anfield is a challenge they would, if possible, prefer to postpone.