Napoli was officially crowned champion for the first time since 1990 after their 1-1 draw with Udinese. Napoli won the Serie A championship on Thursday night, thanks to a goal from Victor Osimhen.
To win their third scudetto after a 33-year drought, Napoli, who has maintained excellent form all season, needed a point against Udinese. Sandi Lovric's goal in the 13th minute gave Udinese a slim 1-0 advantage at the break. But Napoli battled back, and Osimhen's strike in the 52nd minute restored parity.
Mario Balotelli's Message to Osimhen
Victor Osimhen has received congratulations from former Italy striker Mario Balotelli following Napoli's Serie A title on Thursday. The pivotal equalizer by Osimhen was enough to give Napoli their third championship in their history.
The super eagle's striker took to his Instagram page to celebrate. Balotelli, who won the 2010 Inter Milan treble, joined him to celebrate.
Osimhen has scored 27 times overall and 22 goals in Serie A this season. He presently three-goal goal advantage over Laureto Martinez as the top scorer in Italy's top division.
Following the game, Osimhen broadcast live on Instagram, capturing Napoli's celebrations in their locker room. Additionally, he had a wonderful conversation with Mario Balotelli, a three-time Serie A champion and close buddy. The video has gained popularity.
Osimhen started: "I saw some videos, it's unbelievable..."
"Trust me. You did something incredible, my friend. You still don't know what you did. Trust me," Balotelli replied.
When Osimhen stated he didn't know how to react or feel, Balotelli said: "You will realize in the years. Not tomorrow, not for the next year: in 10 years, you understand what you did. It's an unbelievable season."
Osimhen continued: "I'm so happy. It's been amazing. I remember when I came here... these people... some sent me messages and everything like that. It's amazing. I don't know how to feel. I don't know how to... I'm overwhelmed."
Balotelli interjected: "Don't care how you feel! You are a champion! It's okay!"
The Italian striker said: "Congratulations. unbelievable. Enjoy!" before leaving the call.
Osimhen scored his 22nd goal against Udinese, surpassing Samuel Eto'o to become the African with the most goals in a single Serie A season. Additionally, with 46 goals in the Italian top division, he tied current president and famous Liberian great George Weah.
In Napoli's final five games, the Nigerian striker will try to increase his total and win the Golden Boot.