Victor Osimhen backs teammate after costly error in Galatasaray Cup exit

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has shown support for Galatasaray teammate Günay Güvenç following the club’s shocking Turkish Cup exit to Gençlerbirliği, Soccernet.ng reports.

Galatasaray were knocked out at the quarter-final stage after a surprise 2-0 defeat on Wednesday, bringing their title defence to an end. The result was particularly unexpected, considering they had beaten the same opponents just days earlier in a Turkish Super League clash.

Experienced goalkeeper Güvenç, who was making his 14th appearance of the season and had featured in all of Galatasaray’s Cup matches this season endured a difficult outing, as his mistake proved decisive and sealed his side’s exit from the competition.

The 34-year-old could have done better for the opening goal, as his initial save rebounded kindly for Firatcan Uzum, who tapped home in the 51st minute to give Gençlerbirliği the lead.

Things went from bad to worse as Galatasaray pushed for an equalizer. Güvenç was again at fault for the second goal after misjudging a corner, dropping the ball and allowing Adama Traore an easy finish. The goal doubled the visitors’ advantage and left Galatasaray with an uphill task they could not overcome.

Some sections of the home supporters voiced their frustration afterwards, whistling and booing the goalkeeper. After the final whistle, Güvenç was visibly emotional and broke down in tears before being comforted by his teammates.

Victor Osimhen backs Günay Güvenç after error 

The only major positive on the day was the return of Victor Osimhen for Galatasaray, after he had missed several matches due to injury. The Super Eagles forward came off the bench in the second half and while he could not spark a comeback, his presence added urgency to the attack.

After the match, the 27-year-old took to social media to publicly support his teammate, who had come under heavy criticism.

“We stand with Günay Güvenç. One moment doesn’t define a player, mistakes are part of football. It can never outweigh the effort, commitment, and passion he brings to the team,” Osimhen said, per Buchi Laba on X.

“Football is a game of highs and lows, what truly matters is how we respond and how we support each other through those moments. To our fans, thank you for your support.”

Galatasaray will now be looking to move past their cup disappointment and shift focus to the league, where they are chasing a fourth consecutive Turkish Super League title. 

Their next challenge comes against fierce rivals Fenerbahce at Rams Park on Sunday in what could prove to be a decisive clash in the title race, given that there are only a few matches remaining this season.