Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been warned that Fenerbahce’s defence is capable of containing his threat ahead of Galatasaray’s crucial Intercontinental Derby at RAMS Park on Monday, Footynaija.com reports.
The two Istanbul rivals are preparing to lock horns with just three points separating them in the Turkish Super Lig standings, making the encounter an important test of their title ambitions.
Galatasaray sit second with 19 points from eight matches, while Fenerbahce occupy third place with 16 points. The hosts have scored 17 league goals this season, but their visitors boast the division’s most prolific attack with 22 goals and have won their last three domestic matches.
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Osimhen will likely lead Galatasaray’s attack after scoring in their impressive 4-2 Champions League victory over Lille last week. The Nigerian found the net against his former club to end a brief scoring drought and will be looking to carry that momentum into one of Turkish football’s biggest fixtures.
However, Fenerbahce forward Verdat Muriqi believes his team’s defensive organisation can prevent the former African Footballer of the Year from making the difference.
“He’s a very strong and good player, but I trust my teammates,” Muriqi said, per quotes from Turk Inform. “I think our defensive line can neutralise Osimhen’s quickness and gain the upper hand.”
Osimhen has gone without a goal in his last two Turkish Super Lig appearances, despite Galatasaray recording victories over Kasimpasa and Genclerbirligi. His Champions League strike against Lille, however, offers encouragement ahead of Monday’s showdown.
The 27-year-old also has an impressive record against Fenerbahce, having remained unbeaten in five official meetings with the Yellow-Navy Blues since joining Galatasaray. He scored twice in last season’s Turkish Cup quarter-final, helping the Lions secure a 2-1 victory over their fierce rivals.
With his scoring touch restored and a strong record against Fenerbahce behind him, Osimhen will have another opportunity to silence his doubters and deliver in a derby that could significantly shape the early title race.
