Osimhen Returns From Fractured Arm But Galatasaray Crash Out of Turkish Cup

Victor Osimhen made his comeback from a fractured arm on Tuesday but could not prevent Galatasaray from crashing out of the Turkish Cup quarter-finals after a shock 2-0 defeat to Gençlerbirği at RAMS Park.

The Nigerian striker, out for 35 days after injuring his arm against Liverpool in the Champions League Round of 16, came on as a 78th-minute substitute with Galatasaray already trailing.

Shock Defeat

Gençlerbirliği, clear underdogs going into the tie, took the lead in the 51st minute through Firatcan Uzum, assisted by Adama Traore. Manager Okan Buruk brought on Osimhen to chase an equaliser, but five minutes after his introduction, Traore doubled the lead from close range after goalkeeper Gunay Guvenc failed to deal with a corner.

The second-choice goalkeeper was in tears at full-time after his error, though Buruk was quick to defend him in his post-match comments.

Osimhen Confronts Referee

In stoppage time, Osimhen clashed with Ousmane Diabate while contesting an aerial ball and confronted referee Batuhan Kolak after appearing to be hit by the opponent’s shoulder. The Super Eagles star was booked for his reaction, escaping what could have been a red card.

Despite the cup exit, Galatasaray remain top of the Turkish Super Lig with 71 points from 30 matches, four clear of Fenerbahçe in the title race.

Sources: Daily Post, Soccernet, Legit.ng