Victor Osimhen Reveals Matchday Rituals, Why Defeat Keeps Him Awake

Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen has revealed the personal rituals that carry him into every match, from the music in his headphones to the mindset that drives him once he crosses the white line.

The Galatasaray striker, who has quickly become a favourite in Istanbul, said he turns to music from Olamide, Nas and Damian Marley before kick-off. Speaking on the Smallie YouTube Channel, he explained that the songs help him switch into the competitive mode that has defined his career since childhood.

He said: “Growing up, I already had it in my mind that football is what I want to do. Most of the time, I listen to Olamide. I also listen to Nas and Damian Marley; Strong Will continues to motivate me. It’s really a motivating song for me when I’m going for a match, so these have been a few of my rituals.”

There is one particular track that always sets the tone for him. The former Napoli striker said, “My favourite Olamide song to listen to before a match is King Shit: ‘Don’t worry about tomorrow, forget your sorrow, forget about the shoes and clothes you borrowed.’”

Osimhen has already shown his hunger for goals this season. The 26-year-old scored twice in Galatasaray’s 3-2 win over Samsunspor on Friday, a result that highlighted his importance in the title race.

Away from matchday routines, he admitted that defeat sits heavily with him. He said losing affects him deeply, no matter the level or the stage of the competition.

Osimhen said: “Losing, to be honest, is very cruel. Whether it’s street football, real matches, the World Cup or the African Cup of Nations… Even in life. I have never liked losing since I was little. Of course, it’s normal, it’s part of the game and I have to accept it, but if I could, I would like to win them all.”

Osimhen added that the feeling often follows him into the night. He said, “People who live with me know that if I lose a match, it’s very hard for me to sleep. When I’m on the pitch, I become a completely different beast.”