A resounding surprise.. Benin star bypasses the stars of the old continent and tops the "assist" list

Benin star embarrasses Europe's legends in crucial passes

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A resounding surprise.. Benin star bypasses the stars of the old continent and tops the "assist" list

Benin international Junior Olaitan has moved to the top of the UEFA Europa League assists chart after setting up a crucial goal in Beşiktaş's 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim on Thursday 15 October.

The 24 year old attacking midfielder continued his impressive European form in Germany, providing the decisive pass for South Korean striker Hyeon-gyu Oh as Beşiktaş secured their second consecutive victory in the 2026 /27 Europa League league phase.

Olaitan has now recorded three assists in two matches, moving clear of his closest competitors in the tournament's individual rankings.

According to UEFA's official statistics, the Beninese midfielder leads the competition's assists chart, with seven players tied behind him on two assists.

Junior Olaitan inspires Beşiktaş comeback against Hoffenheim

Olaitan played an important role in Beşiktaş's hard fought victory at the Rhein Neckar Arena.

After a goalless first half, Amir Murillo put the Turkish visitors ahead in the 60th minute before Fisnik Asllani equalised for Hoffenheim eight minutes later.

With the score level at 1-1, Olaitan produced a decisive contribution in the 72nd minute.

The Beninese midfielder supplied Oh, who finished to restore Beşiktaş's advantage.

The South Korean striker added another goal in the 79th minute, before Kōki Machida reduced the deficit for Hoffenheim eight minutes later.

Olaitan was substituted in the 78th minute, having helped Beşiktaş establish the lead that ultimately proved crucial.

Speaking after the match, the midfielder acknowledged the difficulties his team faced against the German side.

He explained that Hoffenheim's pressing caused problems during the first half, but tactical adjustments at the interval helped Beşiktaş improve.

"We're happy, and we want to keep this momentum going" Olaitan told Beşiktaş's official website.

Three assists in two Europa League matches

Olaitan's latest contribution follows an equally impressive display against Olympique de Marseille in September.

During Beşiktaş's 4-1 victory over the French club on 17 September, he provided two assists, including the pass that allowed Ernest Poku to score the fourth goal.

As Foot Africa reported following the Marseille encounter, the Beninese international completed 36 of his 44 passes and created three chances during that performance.

His third assist against Hoffenheim has now taken him above players including Beşiktaş teammate Orkun Kökçü, Bayer Leverkusen's Aleix García and Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, who each have two assists.

The achievement is particularly notable given that Olaitan joined Beşiktaş only eight months ago.

From Göztepe to becoming a key player at Beşiktaş

Olaitan completed his permanent move from Göztepe to Beşiktaş in February 2026.

His arrival was itself a milestone, as he became the first Beninese player to represent Beşiktaş.

The midfielder had previously developed his career in France, representing Niort, Troyes and Grenoble before moving to Turkish football.

His adaptation to life in Istanbul initially required time but performances under Italian head coach Vincenzo Italiano have strengthened his position in the squad.

As Foot Africa recently examined in a report on his growing popularity, Olaitan has become an increasingly appreciated figure among supporters because of his work rate and attacking contributions.

His domestic performances have also been encouraging.

Across his first six Turkish Süper Lig appearances of the 2026 /27 campaign, the midfielder registered two assists in 422 minute, although he had yet to score.

His performances in Europe now offer further evidence of his creative influence.

What comes next for Olaitan and Beşiktaş?

Beşiktaş have collected six points from their opening two Europa League matches, defeating Marseille 4-1 before securing the 3-2 away victory against Hoffenheim.

Their next European fixture will be against Premier League side Crystal Palace in Istanbul on Thursday 22 October.

The encounter will provide Olaitan with another opportunity to extend his lead in the competition's assists chart.

For Beşiktaş, his ability to create chances has become an important part of their attacking approach.

For Benin, meanwhile, the midfielder's performances represent an encouraging development as one of the Cheetahs' internationals continues to make his mark in European club football.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.