FT: Napoli 1-1 Barcelona, Victor Osimhen STRIKES! [VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS]

Nigeria Super Eagles striker and Napoli sensation Victor Osimhen was on target as the Neapolitans held Barcelona to a 1-1 draw in Champions League round 16 first-leg at the Stadio Diego Maradona.

It was a thriller of a clash as the two teams locked horns in what was a frenetic affair characterized by express attacking flair.

Barcelona were the better side with dominant control of the ball. The visitors completed more passes in Napoli’s area but were struggling to find the back of the net.

Napoli also made frantic efforts to take down their more dominant opponents with counters. A largely attacking 90 minutes saw the game opened at both ends with big chances created.

Barcelona had more shots (7) in the first half but could not break the goal deadlock. Napoli goalkeeper Meret lazied about on goal despite the Catalan’s rhythmic and spirited offensives.

Towards the last 10 minutes of the game, Barcelona lost their initial dominant sail with possession. They slacked on the ball from 60% to 50% as Napoli began to establish their presence in the game.

It ended barren at the break but the visitors proved the better at the interval.

It was still a cagey affair in the second half with Barcelona starting on the front foot while Napoli committed more bodies to the block.

In the 60th minute, the LaLiga champions broke the goal deadlock. Robert Lewandowski drilled a low shot pass Meret after a pass from Pedri to give the Blaugrana the lead.

15 minutes after Robert Lewandowski’s strike, Osimhen, who was yet to register an attempt on target, netted the equaliser for the host. Collecting a pass from Anguissa from the center position, Osimhen breezed pass Martinez and fired into the bottom-left corner beating Ter Stegen.

After Osimhen’s goal, Napoli interim boss Francesco Calzona made a series of substitutions that turned the game around.

Napoli were on the ascendancy in the last 15 minutes of the game but Barcelona held on to run out with a 1-1 draw at the blast of the final whistle.