Victor Osimhen believes Galatasaray have strengthened their chances of retaining the Turkish Super Lig title after scoring twice in their 2-1 victory over bitter rivals Fenerbahçe, Footynaija reports.
The Super Eagles striker delivered a decisive first-half brace at RAMS Park on Monday, to help the defending champions win the Intercontinental Derby and extend their lead at the top of the table.
Osimhen opened the scoring in the 29th minute before doubling Galatasaray’s advantage in the 44th minute. Fenerbahçe pulled one back through İrfan Can Kahveci in the 62nd minute, but the hosts held on to claim all three points.
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The victory took Galatasaray to 22 points after nine matches, giving them a two-point advantage over second-placed Amed SK and a six-point cushion over fifth-placed Fenerbahçe.
Speaking after the match, Osimhen stressed the importance of beating direct rivals in the battle for the championship.
“Winning derbies is crucial for becoming champions,” Osimhen told BeinSports.
“We managed to win this big derby and get 3 points. We are happy, because of the team, the performance, and the fans. Our fans both put pressure on the opponent and supported us very well. We implemented the coach’s tactics correctly. We earned a deserved 3 points.”
Osimhen also reaffirmed his commitment to Galatasaray following discussions surrounding him in the build-up to the derby, insisting that the support of the club’s fans matters more to him than criticism on social media.
“There were discussions before the match this week. I love this club. I will give everything for this club. I don’t care about social media. I see the fans.
“Galatasaray fans have always been behind me, always supporting me since I arrived. I focus on the fans’ support, not on unimportant things. I look at my team. I believe we will achieve even greater successes.”
Galatasaray have won the last four Turkish championships with Osimhen a key part of the most recent two triumphs. No team has ever won the Turkish Süper Lig five times in a row.
