Osimhen Gets Massive Praise As Jorge Jesus Puts Him In Haaland’s Class

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has placed Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen alongside Erling Haaland among the most physically and technically powerful forwards in world football.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Jesus made the remarks ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League clash with Norway at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo.

Haaland was identified as one of Norway’s biggest attacking threats, with the Manchester City forward widely known for his goalscoring ability, pace and physical strength.

Speaking about the threat posed by the Norwegian striker before the encounter, Jesus highlighted Haaland’s effectiveness inside the penalty area and compared his qualities with those of Osimhen.

Jesus described Haaland as an exceptionally powerful player both physically and technically inside the box, while noting that the Norwegian’s influence is particularly significant in that area of the pitch.

“Outside the area, he isn’t quite as dominant, even though he is fast. But inside the box, for me, he and Osimhen are the strongest in the world,” Jesus said.

The Portuguese coach’s assessment places Osimhen in the same elite category as Haaland when it comes to strength, movement and effectiveness around the penalty area.

Both forwards are renowned for their ability to challenge defenders, attack crosses and convert opportunities from close range, although they play in different tactical systems at club level.

The Nations League encounter ultimately ended in a 2-1 victory for Portugal, although Haaland still found the net for Norway as he scored his side’s only goal of the match.