Napoli's Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, made a significant impact in his first start for Napoli since losing the 2023 African Cup of Nations Finals to Ivory Coast with Nigeria. Despite being starved of service for much of the game, Osimhen showed his quality by brilliantly drawing his side level with a well-taken goal in the 75th minute against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League round of 16.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving the tie firmly in the balance. Napoli, who had their third manager of the season in the dugout, Francesco Calzona, struggled against the reigning Spanish champions. Barça dominated the first half and took the lead through Robert Lewandowski in the 60th minute.
However, Osimhen's goal sparked Napoli to life, with the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium roaring to life. The draw leaves Napoli winless in five meetings against Barcelona, but Calzona will be pleased to still be in the tie after being outplayed for much of the game. Xavi, on the other hand, will be frustrated by his side's lack of killer instinct as they aim to progress to the quarter-finals.
