Osimhen Fires Galatasaray Past Beşiktaş in Derby Battle

Victor Osimhen scored his 11th Süper Lig goal of the season in his 18th appearance to help Galatasaray defeat Wilfred Ndidi’s Beşiktaş 1-0, solidifying the yellow-reds’ place at the top of the table.

The derby at Tüpraş Stadium was tense and physical, with Beşiktaş receiving three yellow cards and Galatasaray seeing seven players booked. The turning point came in the 62nd minute when Leroy Sané was sent off after a VAR review, leaving Galatasaray to defend their lead with ten men.

Osimhen’s strike in the 39th minute proved decisive. Reflecting on the match, he said: ‘It wasn’t going to be easy. He was a difficult opponent. There were thousands of fans. There was momentum at the beginning, we found the goal. We had a hard time after the red. I congratulate my teammates for their strength. We fought very aggressively until the last moment. I am very happy.’

The Nigerian forward also emphasized his bond with the club: ‘I follow my coach’s instructions. There were some of my teammates who excited and motivated me. After the goal, they called me to the defense. I love this club very much. I am proud of my team. We show unity. We have to go match by match.’