Ghana Defender Admits: ‘Victor Osimhen Has Been My Toughest Opponent’ After Nigerian Star’s Stunning Form in Turkey

Ghana international centre-back Jerome Opoku has revealed that Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen is the most difficult striker he has ever faced.

The İstanbul Başakşehir defender admitted the Nigerian forward forces defenders to remain fully focused whenever he is on the pitch.

Opoku, who plays his club football in Turkey, recently expressed pride in helping Ghana qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is eyeing a prominent role at the tournament.

Jerome Opoku: Ghana Star on Victor Osimhen

He has battled top strikers across Europe, but Osimhen, currently thriving at Galatasaray and breaking historic goal-scoring records in Europe, stands out as the toughest challenge.

“Osimhen has made me switch on… I need to be 100%. If you give him one yard, he’ll be off in behind you, so in terms of testing me and bringing the best out of me, I’d say he’s been my toughest opponent.” Jerome Opoku said to RG.

Opoku’s respectful praise comes as Osimhen’s value continues to rise, with Galatasaray’s president insisting that the forward is not for sale, despite interest from top European clubs.

Opoku Recounts Early Days In EFL

The Ghana defender also recalled the moment in his early career that taught him the harsh physical realities of the professional game when he faced Adebayo Akinfenwa in the EFL Trophy.

“Growing up, I remember when we played Wycombe…Adebayo Akinfenwa was up front. That was crazy, because my body wasn’t even developed yet — he just put his arm on my chest and I could not move.”

The 27-year-old has spoken openly about how early-career challenges, including tough loan spells and a serious ACL injury, helped shape him.

Now established as a Black Stars defender, Opoku says facing forwards like Osimhen only strengthens his ambition to shine on the world stage with Ghana.